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If you're a wine lover, there's no better time than Washington Wine Month to explore the world-class wineries and vineyards right in our neighboring state's backyard. With over 1,000 wineries and 20 diverse AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), Washington has solidified its place as the second-largest premium wine producer in the United States. From the fertile Columbia Valley to the scenic Puget Sound, each region imparts distinctive terroir and flavors into the bottles. So, grab a designated driver and get ready to sip your way through some of the most acclaimed wine destinations in the Pacific Northwest.

Woodinville Wine Country (Puget Sound AVA)

Just a 30-minute drive from Seattle, the Woodinville area has the highest concentration of tasting rooms in the state. The Hollywood Hill and West Valley areas are compact and walkable, making it easy to hopscotch between urban wineries. Don't miss crowd-pleasers like Chateau Ste. Michelle (Washington's oldest winery), Novelty Hill and DeLille Cellars. Insider tip: Check the Hollywood Station schedule for live music acts performing right in the heart of the warehouse district.

Yakima Valley AVA

Established in 1983, this was Washington's first AVA and it's still one of the most fertile regions. The drive through the valley is jaw-droppingly beautiful, with lush vineyards laced between sculpted hills. Top stops include Airfield Estates, known for pioneering many Spanish varietals like Tempranillo, plus Wilridge Vineyard and Winery for their elegant reds and scenic patio. Continue west to sample rare Italian varietals at Treveri Cellars, one of the few Yakima producers of sparkling wines.  

Walla Walla Valley AVA

This might just be the most enchanting wine destination in the state. Tucked away in the southeast corner, downtown Walla Walla blends old-world charm with cutting-edge cuvées around every cobblestone corner. Make time to explore ambassadors of the area like L'Ecole No. 41, Leonetti Cellar, and Woodward Canyon. Pepper Bridge Winery, perched on a hillside of ancient Missoula Flood soil, is another don't-miss for its Bordeaux-style blends and spectacular views overlooking the Blue Mountains.

Red Mountain AVA

Though just a 30-minute drive from Walla Walla, Red Mountain feels worlds away with its otherworldly rust-colored ridge towering over a desert plateau. It's the smallest and hottest appellation in Washington, creating some of the most powerful and age-worthy reds from stalwarts like Ciel du Cheval, Fidelitas, Hedges and Kiona Vineyards. Tastings here are intimate, unhurried, and unforgettable against the stark, sagebrush-scented landscape.

Ancient Lakes AVA

One of the newest and most fascinating AVAs is situated in the Quincy Basin, where mineral-rich, billion-year-old sediments dating back to the Miocene era comprise the sandy soils. Top producers include Beaumont Cellars, featuring estate plantings of Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay, and other cool-climate grapes. Nearby Cave B Resort cultivates adventurous limited-release blends in its on-site vineyards and winery. The gorgeous grounds also offer chic lodging, dining, and unbeatable vistas of the waterfall-laced gorge and desert mesas.

Lake Chelan AVA

Perhaps best known for its glacier-carved lake and resort facilities, this area just a few hours from Coeur d’Alene promises scenic vineyard vistas around every turn. Start at Tildio Winery, taking in postcard-worthy views of the water and a rotating roster of food trucks in the garden. Then head up the hill to enjoy award winners like hard-to-find Lemberger, Cabernet Franc and Tempranillo at Benson Vineyards. Mellisoni Vineyards offers a complete wine country experience with its inn, restaurant, tasting room, live music, and "pirate" zipline all on site.

Whether you're craving rustic reds or bright aromatic whites, this month is the prime time to enjoy the bounties of Washington's diverse wine regions. With so many scenic rural routes to explore, all you need is a couple of free days, some thirsty friends, and a passion for place-expressive Washington wines. If you don’t have the time to take your own WA AVA trip, swing by The Dinner Party and we can take your palate on a journey — we carry wines from the wineries mentioned in this article in-shop and will help guide your path through Washington’s diverse wines! Cheers!

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Laura Olson is co-owner of The Dinner Party along with her partner, Joe Petersen. You can also follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/#!/dinnerpartyshop or visit www.thedinnerpartyshop.com.