10 Best Sights in Washington Wine Country, Washington

Established in 2001 on the site of a historic apple orchard on the lower slopes of the Rattlesnake Hills, this popular winery with a focus on sustainability specializes in both estate-grown Bordeaux- and Rhone-style varietals, from the supple and earthy Cabernet Franc to a French oak-aged Roussanne-Viognier blend. The handsome tasting room adjoins a gable-roofed terrace surrounded by colorful gardens. 

At this 30-acre lavender farm and wine-making operation set in a stylishly modernized farmhouse a little northwest of Zillah, you can sample first-rate, mostly Bordeaux- and Rhône-style vin, along with a brick-oven-baked pizza made with a dough recipe passed down by one of the owner's Ukrainian families. You can also attend concerts, chef dinners, and other special events.

One of the early Yakima Valley wineries, established in 1981, Portteus is beloved by red-wine drinkers. Production includes Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Syrah, Zinfandel, and port—as well as a robust Chardonnay. The family-run tasting room is often staffed by the second generation of the Portteus family. Grapes are grown at 1,440-foot elevation on 47 acres above Zillah.

This family-run winery's tasting room, reminiscent of a European chalet, sits among vineyards near a duck pond that's lovely for picnics. A valley stalwart since 1985, Bonair has garnered dozens of awards for its Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Riesling, and Chardonnay.

Sourcing from 180 acres of vineyards in Zillah, Hyatt has long been respected for Merlot and Syrah, as well as a dessert-friendly late-harvest Riesling. The well-appointed tasting room and well-manicured gardens and lawns are nice for picnicking and offer grand views to the west of the Cascades.

This historic estate on the 1,200-foot southern slopes of the Rattlesnake Hills often some of the best valley views in Zillah. With both a large deck and well-manicured lawn with a soothing fountain, the winery stands out for its Cabernet Sauvignon, sweet and dry Rieslings, Roza red blend, and Chardonnay.

This small, friendly town a few miles from Zillah is worth a stop for its more than 80 colorful murals adorning the facades and exterior walls. Commissioned since 1989 by the Toppenish Mural Association and done in a variety of styles by regional artists, they commemorate the town's history and Western spirit. The town lies within the nearly 2,200-square-mile Yakama Reservation and is home to a number of affordable, family-run Mexican restaurants—more than 80% of its 8,800 residents identify as Hispanic or Latino.

This relative new kid in the valley has quickly earned kudos for its value-friendly bottles, many of them priced below the $25 mark, including a silky, steak-friendly Cabernet Sauvignon and a bright and light rosé that's ideal on a hot summer night of grilling. If visiting the high-ceilinged tasting room on a cool day, opt for a seat by the fireplace or out on the patio, which is warmed by a fire table and space heaters. 

This six-building complex just outside Toppenish has a fascinating museum of history and culture related to the Yakama Nation, which occupies a 2,200-square-mile reservation. (It's a little bigger than the state of Delaware.) Holdings include costumes, basketry, beadwork, and reconstructions of traditional lodges. Tribal dances and other cultural events are often staged in the Heritage Theater. The complex also includes a gift shop, restaurant, and library.