Like its western sisters California and Oregon, Washington produces many world-class wines.  The climate of eastern Washington is ideal for growing wine grapes, and western Washington is home to several large wineries that offer tours and tastings within easy reach of downtown Seattle.

Chateau Ste. Michelle is one of Washington’s largest wineries, producing  wine since 1934, and was named "American Winery of the Year" by Wine Enthusiast in 2004.  Located in Woodinville on the east side of Lake Washington, the Chateau is open daily from 10-5 for tours of the winemaking facilities and tasting room.  Tours depart every half hour, and finish in the tasting room for complimentary tastings.  You can upgrade to "premium" tasting options for a small fee. 

Columbia Winery is located adjacent to Chateau Ste. Michelle, and visiting both wineries is a great way to spend an afternoon.  Columbia Winery boasts the largest wine tasting bar in the state, and beautifully landscaped grounds.

While not a winery, Red Hook Brewery is also dear to Washingtonians’ hearts, and is located next to the Columbia and Chateau Ste. Michelle wineries.   One dollar buys a tour of the brewery, a souvenir tasting glass, and plenty of beer samples.  Tour times vary by season and day, so check the website for information relevant to your visit.  Red Hook Brewery is also home to the Forecaster’s Pub, with a wide selection of pub-style food, and of course, beer.

If you venture further afield to eastern Washington, you may wish to visit some wineries that are located closer to where the grapes are actually grown.   The Yakima and Columbia valleys supply grapes for winemakers throughout the state, but it’s worth visiting these grapes (and wines) at the cource.  Barnard Griffin, Chinook, and Bookwalter Wineries are all good examples of award-winning Washington wines, and all offer tours and tastings. 

www.winecountrywashington.org and www.gotastewine.com are some nice website on this region.