We will be in Seattle for just a few days the first week of October and would like to spend a day outside of the city. Can you recommend a few wineries that would be fun to visit? Since we will probably do this on a weekday, we may need to make appointments at some of the small boutique wineries. Also would like to hear about any great picnic spots and places to pick up picnic supplies.

Thanks in advance!

On the way out to Woodinville there is a Larry's Market off 405N on the 124th st exit, great place for picnic supplies.

this website has a good map as well as phone numbers for the wineries so you can call for appts.

www.woodinvillewinecountry.com/wwc.php

You know the big ones: Columbia and Ch. St Michelle. Others that we really love are DiStephano, Mark Ryan and Matthews

Facelli is very small with good inexpensive wines and Mr. Facelli is know to autograph each bottle you purchase.

Lunch or dinner at the Barking Frog right in the middle of all the wineries is a very nice treat. Or more casual fare can be found at the Red Hook Brewery.

Januik is another one to look at. I have not been to the winery itself, but it is near the others and we do enjoy the wine.

If the weather is nice, you can picnic on the beautiful grounds of Chateau St. Michelle. They also have a small selection of cheese and other tasty items, not to mention wine (!), in their gift shop.

There are tables just outside of the gift shop under an arbor, or picnic tables out by the fountain and pool (where the geese and ducks like to congregate). I also often see people just sitting on the various grassy areas and sometimes picnicking.

And, should you want a marvelous dinner at a cosy little restaurant nearby, "The Golden Goat" (Il Capretto d'Oro) is sensational! It is located in the little shopping area just down the street from the Chateau and Columbia wineries (on the Chateau's side of street). Prices are reasonable and the food is marvelous, and we highly recommend it -- one of our favorites and we've never been disappointed in our many visits. Great wine selection, too.

Whatever you decide, have a delightful time and welcome to Seattle and to Woodinville!

Thank you all so much!! We've heard about Hedges in Issaquah also. Do you guys think we can reasonably go east to Issaquah and stop at Snoqualmie Falls, drive through the Fall City area and then to Woodinville? Is this possible in 1 day (stopping at a few wineries, of course). We will probably be doing this on a weekday and many wineries are closed. Is this just too much for a day? Any suggestions for a route that will let us see and do the most in 1 day?

Thanks again! We're really excited about our trip.

Yes, I think that's very doable in one day if you get an early enough start and don't have to deal with major traffic crossing the bridge (assuming you're staying in the city--if not, it will be even more doable.) Hope the great weather we've been having continues to stay great for you.

Agree with artlover re "doable" trip, as long as you are only "tasting."

Also, want to be certain you understand that the actual vineyards are in Eastern Washington, and therefore the wineries are tasting places and/or bottling (as in the case of the Chateau, which has a very nice tour).

Wanted to mention, too, that across from Seattle (35 minute ferry ride) is Bainbridge Island with its own small winery, Bainbridge Winery -- and they actually do grow their own grapes there. It's a fun place to visit, and only a short ride from the ferry dock. The town of Winslow on B.I. greets you as you depart the ferry, and it is a quaint, very pleasant little town. (The bookstore is especially nice, if that is something you're interested in). There's also a marina and some nice restaurants and interesting little shops. The ferry ride gives you a lovely view of the Puget Sound, too, and the Seattle skyline as you return.

Actually, Bainbridge Island is a great day trip overall. There is also the remarkable Bloedel Reserve, an estate open to the public with acres and acres of grounds and trails (but reservations needed, so that crowds of visitors are avoided -- only so many per 1/2 hour). It is just beautiful there with meadows,gardens, forests, lakes, waterfalls, moss garden, Japanese garden. You can easily spend several hours there as you explore.

Well, whatever you plan, you'll have a great time. It's always fun to travel and explore new places! (And, should it rain, as can happen, just bring a windbreaker with hood or Gore-tex, and possibly a small, collapsible umbrella
and keep going!) Have a great trip!

Sue

Sure, all those places are close together and not too far from the city. Very do-able in a day.