FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Wine Tasting in Washington’s Yakima Valley

by Megan Hill

Nov 22, 2014

© Ldambies | Dreamstime

Destination

Washington’s Yakima Valley sits on the drier, eastern side of the state’s Cascade Mountains. Here, among the dusty hills and desert canyons, sits Washington’s oldest and largest wine region, with undulating rows of grapes and friendly, approachable tasting rooms.

 

Yakima Valley is home to around 100 wineries, far too many for just one visit. The tasting fees are low and the winemakers themselves are often doing the pouring. You’ll find top-notch wines that rival those found in California’s oft-heralded Napa Valley, but without the traffic. Don’t be surprised if you have the tasting room all to yourself.

 

Your best bets for excellent tastings include Treveri Cellars, producers of sparkling wine so fine it’s been selected for State Department dinners. Trek over to Gilbert Cellars, which sits on 300 rolling acres of Hackett Ranch. It’s also home to the region’s first craft distillery, Glacier Basin Distillery, and a soon-to-open brewery. Time your visit with one of the many events, including live music — no cover.

 

Ten tasting rooms occupy the Vintner’s Village in Prosser; you can park your car and walk to each of them. Stop in Thurston Wolfe, with its rare varieties, and Milbrandt Vineyards, one of the region’s best.

 

You can taste and learn at the Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center, which hosts tastings from Yakima Valley and other Washington State wineries.

 

If you opt not to drive, consider a wine tour with one of several local companies, including Wineries Express, with its join-in and charter tour options. If you’re flying Alaska Airlines, the tasting fee is waived at 38 wineries, and you can check a case of wine free when flying from the Tri-Cities or Yakima airports.

 

#TrazeeTravel

Insta Feed
Hotel
Dec 19, 2024

4 Hotels to Stay at for 2025 Sporting Events

Diehard sports fans often travel near and far to watch their favorite teams. With plenty of exciting sporting events taking place in 2025, these hotels offer a respite for sports fanatics after the events.

Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History

Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.

Hotel
Dec 19, 2024

Postcard Cabins Brand Now Part of Marriott

More than 1,200 glamping cabins recently joined Marriott in an acquisition set to bring more travelers closer to nature. Postcard Cabins, formerly Getaway, was founded in 2015 with the mission to bring free time in nature to more people.

Destinations / Europe
Dec 18, 2024

Why You Should Visit Florence in January

Ready to book your first 2025 getaway? Consider Florence, Italy, for two can’t-miss events in January.

Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City

They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.

Hotel
Dec 18, 2024

Brookmere Debuts Today in Saratoga Springs, New York

Brookmere debuts today in Saratoga Springs, New York, for its soft opening. Situated on 10 acres near many of Saratoga Springs’ iconic attractions, this property boasts 88 guestrooms and suites alongside a host of well-appointed amenities.