By Wini Moranville

Though less famous for its wines than California, Washington State deserves the attention of any wine-lover. The state rates second nationally in grape production (after California, of course). And wherever grapevines thrive, tourism soon flourishes; after all, bucolic vineyards, charming farming communities, and vibrant restaurants featuring seasonal, wine-loving cuisine all have a way of attracting travelers.

Washington’s vast wine-growing regions stretch throughout the state, so for a short trip, it’s best to concentrate on a region or two. Northeast of Seattle, the Woodinville Wine Country is a good choice if you have just a day or two. Here, just 45 minutes from the city, you can visit tasting rooms of the state’s largest producers (Columbia Winery and Chateau Ste. Michelle—the state’s oldest winery), as well as some smaller boutique wineries. While a trek around these wineries is doable as a day trip from Seattle, the area’s plush lodgings and renown restaurants may lure you into staying overnight.

To delve more deeply into the state’s wine country, consider heading east across the Cascade mountains to the state’s most popular wine destination, the Walla Walla region. Set against the backdrop of the Blue Mountains, more than 100 wineries and 1,200 acres of vineyards flourish here—including many of the state’s most highly regarded wineries (don’t miss Pepper Bridge Winery and Woodward Canyon). Red wines are the area’s draw, with bold Syrahs especially emerging as the wine to watch.

One of the oldest communities in the Northwest, Walla Walla itself is an energetic college town, with quaint neighborhoods, tasting rooms, boutiques, restaurants, and wine bars clustering in its thriving downtown. You can hike or mountain bike in the Blue Mountains, less than 20 miles east of Walla Walla. For plusher pursuits, stay at (or visit) the ornate circa-1928 Marcus Whitman Hotel in downtown Walla Walla; the recently restored property has a wine bar (of course!) and an acclaimed restaurant.

To plan a trip to the Washington Wine Country, visit the Washington Wine Commission at washingtonwine.org.