The Puget Sound AVA (American Viticultural Area) yields only one percent of all grapes grown in Washington, so what’s the draw of visiting wineries near this unique body of water? As the only grape-growing region in western Washington, the Puget Sound AVA features a milder climate than its eastern counterparts. Consequently, it is the ideal location to grow Pinot Noir, Riesling, and lesser-known white grapes, such as Madeleine Angevine and Siegerrebe. However, not all wineries in the area use grapes grown in the Puget Sound AVA, with some preferring grapes from eastern Washington regions that produce deeper reds. Journey with us as we visit various Puget Sound wineries and taste the robust flavor of Washington wines!
Wineries Using Grapes from the Puget Sound AVA
Bainbridge Vineyards
If green, local, and sustainable appeal to you, Bainbridge Vineyards is a must-visit. Certified organic in 2014, Bainbridge Vineyards craft their wines solely from grapes grown in their vineyards. They prize a hands-on approach to winemaking, using draft horses and human-powered fieldwork. They also host internship programs to educate and train future farmers. If you get a chance to peruse the enchanting Bainbridge Vineyards, make sure to try the Siegerrebe, Madeleine Angevine, and Raspberry Dessert Wine.
Lopez Island Vineyards
Lopez Island Vineyards may be a small winery, but its reputation is hard to beat. Nestled on the northwest end of Lopez Island, only 55 miles from Lake Whatcom, this family-run vineyard has formulated praiseworthy whites for over 30 years. You don’t want to skip their tasting room: a wood and stone chalet resembling a Medieval mead hall overlooking charming gardens and vast vineyards. Once inside—after you take a moment to soak in these remarkable views—be sure to order the Siegerrebe and Madeleine Angevine.
Spoiled Dog Winery
The barn-style tasting room, surrounding forest, and the beloved vineyard dogs make Spoiled Dog Winery the ideal outdoor oasis. Spoiled Dog differs from other Puget Sound wineries that use estate-grown grapes, as it specializes in Pinot Noir. The owner, Karen, has a law and engineering background. So she loves to merge her brain’s left and right sides into a creative montage to produce stellar Pinot Noirs in a challenging climate. In addition to the Pinot Noir, the Pomo di Moro pear wine, the Deception Red Blend, and the lavender-infused Verjus are must-tries!
Wineries Using Grapes from Eastern Washington AVAs
Chateau Ste. Michelle
Now one of the most renowned wineries in Washington, Chateau Ste. Michelle’s initial goal was to debunk the theory that quality wine only originates from Italy or California. Only 13 miles from Lake Washington, Chateau Ste. Michelle boasts the fullness of Washington flavors. Accordingly, it features two avant-garde wineries, one for whites in the Puget Sound AVA and one for reds in the eastern Canoe Ridge Estate. If you find yourself at Chateau Ste. Michelle, spend time exploring the outdoor gardens, marveling at the architecture, and sipping the unbeatable Riesling varieties.
Structure Cellars
With an urban location, winery dogs, casual ambiance, and throwback hip-hop music, Structure Cellars is not your typical winery. When the owners, Brian and Brandee, opened Structure Cellars, they said: “Seattle [has] found the tasting room it didn’t know it was missing.” Customers commend Brian and Brandee for their involvement, friendly attitudes, and ability to make anyone feel like family. If you get a chance to visit, you can’t go wrong with the Red Hills Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Malbec, or Merlot.
DeLille Cellars
Showcasing a chic three-story tasting room, DeLille Cellars was one of the first wineries in Washington to achieve Robert Parker’s five-star excellence rating. In 1994, DeLille Cellars purchased the rights to Harrison Hill Vineyard, obtaining some of Washington’s oldest and most coveted vines. Located 12 miles from Lake Sammamish, DeLille Cellars was the first winery in Washington to specialize in both red and white Bordeaux-style blends. Their founders’ philosophy is that “all good blends transcend the sum of their individual parts.” So a visit to DeLille Cellars is not complete without trying their Bordeaux-style blends!
While the Puget Sound region is known for its white wines, the local wineries produce a myriad of flavors, solidifying Chateau Ste. Michelle’s theory: Washington can indeed compete with the wine giants of the world.