Fodor's Expert Review Alexandria Nicole Cellars

With an attractive tasting room in the up-and-coming Port of Benton Wine and Food Park on the east side of town, Alexandria Nicole opened its eco-minded winery near the Columbia River—about 35 miles south—in 2004 and has steadily developed into one of the region's stars. The refreshing Viognier and lightly floral Shepherds Market Roussanne-based blend scores high marks from critics, while the cherry- and plum-inflected Tempranillo is a stellar choice among the reds. Ask about the four tiny houses for rent at the vineyard, which also has a seasonal (mid-March to mid.-November) tasting room.