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WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Pamela and Gary Baker

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Yakima’s low-key vibe, culinary renaissance and nearby

world-class tastings make it an ideal base camp for

exploring the valley

A tasteOf YAkImA

Hike or picnic at Cowiche Canyon among flowering

meadows, sage and grasslands, in a dramatic

landscape framed by basalt cliffs and abundant wildlife

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WhEn the missoula Floods ripped through Eastern Washington 15,000 years ago, they scoured away all the topsoil, leaving a base of broken basalt

and, in places, a type of limestone called caliche. Limestone soils are prized throughout the wine world for the mineral quality they impart to the grapes. The result is the characteristic influence of “terroir” on wines.

as you descend the eastern slopes of the cascades and drop down into Yakima Valley, the unique landscape begins to take shape, first in the form of arid, high desert, followed by fertile valleys of fruit trees, row crops, hops and grape vines.

Washington’s wine history is rooted in this valley, where immigrants planted some of the first vines in the mid-1800s. Today this remarkably fertile valley is a magical escape that welcomes travelers from around the world, including many wine aficionados, outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to relax or connect with local cuisine.

home to the state’s first official aVa in 1983, the Yakima Valley’s low-key vibe with its small-town tastings gives “laid back” a whole new meaning. The city of Yakima, founded in 1885, makes a great base for exploring the valley. a new culinary renaissance is taking place here, where no less than six restaurants have recently opened, led by restaurant owners in their 30’s and 40’s. here are a few highlights of Yakima wineries, eateries and activities.

SATURDAY AM

8AM Essencia Artisan BakeryThis warm and friendly bakery shop on north

3rd street in downtown Yakima offers a wide variety of sweet treats, baked goods and fresh coffee—regulars say the bread is the best in town. start the day with a ham, egg and cheese strata.

9AM Cowiche Canyon TrailsJust west of Yakima, cowiche canyon offers

30 miles of trails through 5,000 acres of flowering meadows, sage and grasslands, in a dramatic landscape framed by basalt cliffs and abundant wildlife. hike, mountain bike, or pack a picnic.

SATURDAY PM

12PM Dineen VineyardsDineen Vineyards is in full swing most

weekends, including Fridays, from april through october. in a brick oven kitchen built across the

patio from the Dineen tasting room, chris guerra and his crew bake their delicious neapolitan style pizzas for lunchtime guests.

Vineyard owner Pat Dineen claims to be more of a grape grower than winemaker. This family-owned vineyard and winery is dedicated to growing the highest quality grapes to make their estate bottled Bordeaux-style blend, and two stand-alone varietals, cabernet sauvignon and Viognier. They are located on gilbert Road in the hills of Yakima Valley, just north of Zillah.

2PM J. Bell Cellars & LavenderLavender rows greet visitors along the drive

into this pastoral winery. Wes Teslo, winemaker and owner, renovated a former house into a tasting room. The backyard serves as the courtyard. surrounded by blooming Bartlett pear trees and shaded by overhead canopies, the outdoor setting is so comfortable and relaxing, it’s easy to linger. Teslo started the winery in 2010 with nine barrels sourced from Red mountain grapes. Today, he produces 3,000 cases a year, and serves food cooked in his signature brick oven. on weekends, he invites local celebrity chefs to serve gourmet cuisine at special events and runs a twice-monthly summer jazz series.

handcrafted and unfiltered, J. Bell produces primarily cabernet sauvignon, cabernet Franc and a few Rhône varietals. a self-made winemaker, Teslo says he “likes to try things on the wild side,” producing big, bold wines. The winery is on Knight hill Road in Zillah.

4PM Treveri Cellars This family-owned producer specializes in

sparkling wines. They are located a short drive from Yakima’s city limits in the rolling hills of the apple and vineyard-laden valley. Winemaker and owner, Juergen grieb, along with his son christian, draw from the family’s german heritage to craft some of the finest sparkling wines in the U.s. Each bottle is handcrafted at the winery’s Wapato location on gangl Road, using the traditional méthode champenoise (bottle fermented).

Founded in 2008, Juergen’s wine production has increased steadily every year due to popular demand. Treveri’s lodge-like natural setting of wood beams and stone walls include a “club Lounge” with an outdoor deck. The large and comfortable tasting room offers small bites and makes a great place to wind down the day, especially in the umbrella-shaded areas surrounded by sprawling green lawn, rose and flower gardens.

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clockwise, froM top left Baked goods at Essencia Artisan Bakery; Pat Dineen and his daughter of Dineen Vineyards; J. Bell Cellars in Zillah; Christian Grieb of Treveri Cellars; Treveri's tasting room is an oasis; decorated sparkling wines.

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Dineen Vineyards 2014 Heritage Red Blend, $35This well-crafted Bordeaux varietal blend flexes its muscle with chalky, sweet tannins wrapped around rich, deep flavors of dark cherry, blackberry and violet. Gravel and loamy earth notes mingle with tobacco on the drawn out finish.

Dineen Vineyards 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, $39Supple in texture, displaying exquisite structure and polish, deftly layered with cassis, blackberry, red plum and pomegranate flavors that meld effortlessly with leather, tobacco and mineral notes. firm, yet fine tannins grace the complex finish.

J. Bell Cellars 2012 Essence, $40This Cabernet Sauvignon-forward red wine is bold and broadly textured, steeped with black fruit flavors of macerated blackberry, dark cherry and plum. Grainy, powerful tannins are backed by graphite, madagascar vanilla and tobacco spice that linger on the aftertaste.

J. Bell Cellars 2013 Syrah, $37Ultra plush and powerful, with massive depth to the macerated plum, ripe marionberry, black currant, and violet flavors streaked with caramel, tobacco and allspice. Warm spice notes fuse with the black fruit on the deep finish.

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7PM Dine at Crafted Eaterycrafted Eatery and Bar owners, Dan and mollie,

have reinvented casual dining at their cafe in downtown Yakima. The vibe here is comfortable and the wait staff super friendly. Dine at tables or sit at the chef counter and watch the talented chefs prepare wonderful culinary works of art in the kitchen.

This restaurant offers one of the newly revitalized north Yakima historic District’s farm-to-fork experiences. an extensive wine list of mostly Yakima producers accompanies the chef ’s curated menu, which changes often. Try the Laotian crispy rice made with peanuts, grilled pork sausage, fresh herbs and lime. “mollie’s manny,” aged in a wooden barrel for several weeks, makes a delightful cocktail.

SUnDAY AM

9AM Hit the Farmer’s MarketThe Yakima Valley offers more than 1,000

varieties of fruits and vegetables, and you’ll find many of them at the downtown farmer’s market every sunday between 9am-2pm, from mother’s Day weekend through october.

11AM Lunch at Norm’s a recent transplant, owner steve habecker

moved his popular pub and restaurant, norm’s (named for his dog), from seattle into downtown north Yakima’s historic Lund Building, built in 1898. a labor of love, steve has covered the entire bar top with a dazzling array of new and old pennies under clear plexiglass. Take an early lunch and try the spicy, delicious signature chicken chili before an afternoon of wine tasting.

SUnDAY PM

1PM Gilbert Cellars Tasting Room and JB Neufeld

charlie gilbert, a fifth-generation farmer, and his wife gloria, host a daily happy hour wine tasting. also housed in the Lund Building, the tasting room is on the corner of Front street and East Yakima avenue in the north Yakima historic District.

The Reserve chardonnay from their Doc stewart Vineyard is one of gilbert’s flagship wines. Live music flows in their basement tasting room on the first Friday of each month.

The gilbert cellar production winery, known as hackett Ranch, on ahtanum Road, is open by appointment from april through september.

You may run into gilbert’s winemaker, Justin neufeld, while on a tour of the winery. neufeld also crafts his own wines under the eponymous JB neufeld label, sold locally in restaurants. The easygoing neufeld grew up in nearby naches, and produces about 800 cases per year of cabernet sauvignon sourced exclusively from Yakima Valley growers.

3PM AntoLin CellarsantoLin cellars has a large, well-appointed

tasting room and event center next to the railroad tracks on north Front street. The building that houses Tony and Linda haralson’s tasting room was formerly the old Burlington northern Freight Depot, built in 1908. a railroad theme dominates the caboose Room used for special events and there’s music on Friday nights. it also serves as a gallery for local artists.

Their carménère, a red wine grape rediscovered in chile, won double gold at the san Francisco chronicle Wine competition. all their reserve wines are sourced from their estate vineyard just north of Zillah.

5PM Cowiche Canyon Kitchen and Ice House

Located on the corner of West Yakima avenue and 3rd street, this restaurant and bar opened in 2015 and was promptly awarded top honor at the american institute of architects/central Washington for its dramatic design.

owned by graham and Kaulin snyder, the restaurant manifests an open, industrial ambiance with exposed wood and iron beams across the ceiling. The booth seating arranged next to windows looks out over downtown Yakima’s main avenue. cut firewood stacked along a wall and surrounding the exposed “cook station” provides juxtaposition to the large, glass-enclosed, refrigerated wine cellar opposite. in the dining room, a large set of elk antlers decorate a wall above the booths.

The icehouse is a separate room with a full-length bar on one side and booth seating on the other. Fifteen cocktails are featured: nine ice house originals and six classics including a Bobby Burns and a Boulevardier.

The thin fries here are a big hit as nearly every entrée flying out of the kitchen was stacked with these crunchy, tasty delights. The menu features

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Treveri Cellars Sparkling Riesling Demi-Sec, $17 Sourced from Yakima Valley fruit, this semi-dry bubbly exhibits refreshing aromas and flavors of apple, citrus and baked pear, spiced with exotic accents of apricot, ginger and tangerine peel.

Treveri Cellars Sparkling Gewürztraminer Demi-Sec, $17This sparkling wine is a gem, offering fine beads with a creamy mouthfeel and enticing aromas and flavors of quince, pear, apricot and orange blossom. Light footed and slightly sweet but not at all cloying.

AntoLin Cellars 2012 Estate Malbec, $30.25Displaying aromas of dark stone fruit and leather, this 100% varietal is open textured and filled with juicy red plum, blackberry and cranberry flavors framed with cocoa powder, mulled spices and smooth tannins.

AntoLin Cellars 2012 Estate Carmenere, $30.25Rich, aromatic and complex, with an underlay of red berries that carries through expressive flavors of jalapeno, grilled red bell pepper, violet, peppercorn and tobacco. Stays true to the varietal.

clockwise, froM top left Mural on Crafted Eatery’s historic building; penny covered bar at Norm’s of Yakima; Cowiche Canyon Kitchen and Ice House; Linda Haralson of AntoLin Cellars; Yakima Valley grapes; Gilbert Cellars tasting room

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three cuts of steak and a choice of three sauces. The wedge salad, lamb shanks, tamale cakes and sautéed radishes pair exceptionally well with JB neufeld’s cabernet sauvignon.

7PM HIKE Along the GreenwayEnjoy a sunset stroll on the Yakima greenway,

a 20-mile paved pathway that parallels two rivers, three parks and even several fishing ponds. multiple entry points and plentiful parking make the greenway an easy way to enjoy the outdoors. a scenic walk at dusk along the banks of the winding Yakima River bordering the city is the perfect end to a day of wine tasting.

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JB Neufeld 2014 Yakima Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, $35muscular and harmonious, supported by svelte tannins and solid structure layered with dark chocolate, cocoa and tobacco notes draped over dark fruit flavors of plum, blackberry and raspberry. Spice notes accent the lengthy finish.

JB Neufeld 2014 Two Blondes Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, $40Sophisticated and elegant, this single vineyard version is streaked with minerality on the open textured mouthfeel, complexly layered with cassis, blackberry, plum, violet and tobacco. Refined tannins glide along the ultra-focused finish.

Gilbert Cellars 2013 Doc Stewart Chardonnay, $40Beautifully crafted and openly rich in texture, brimming with aromas and flavors of lemon tart, white peach and pie dough flecked with hints of pineapple and slivered almonds. Ends long, with clean minerality on the finish.

Gilbert Cellars 2012 Reserve No. 2, $52This Bordeaux varietal blend is suave and nuanced, offering a rich, plush mouthfeel of dark plum, blackberry, red currant and vibrant acidity inlaid with crushed pebble, sage and rosemary. Posh, refined tannins stretch out on the finish.

Where to Stay in YakimaHotel MaisonHoused in a former masonic temple, the Hotel maison on East Yakima Avenue offers visitors elegance with modern convenience. Refurbished rooms are spacious. Daily breakfast included. Ph (509) 571-1900, www.thehotelmaison.com

Hilton Garden InnComfort and convenience are part of the experience at this hotel. On East Yakima Avenue within walking distance of local wine tasting rooms, shopping, and the convention center. Amenities include a full-service restaurant, lounge, pool and fitness center. Ph (509) 454-1111www.hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com

More Touringfor a comprehensive list of Yakima Valley wineries, eateries and things to do, visit www.visityakima.com

Yakima's Greenway offers 20 miles of paved paths for pedestrians and bicyclists to connect with nature

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» These solo acts truly amaze with black fruit, mouthcoating tannins, structure and nuances galorePetit Verdot

» Hints of raspberry, blueberry, cassis, tobacco, coffee, olive and violets...what's not to love?Cabernet Franc ToP PicKsToP PicKs

Succession Wines 2013 Cabernet Francfamiglia Vineyards in Ancient Lakes AVA is the source of this version that was aged 18 months in new french and neutral oak. Structured, smooth and layered, balancing black cherry and jammy blackberry with delicate notes of blueberry and currants. finishes with cedar shavings, graphite and spice details. $54

Wit Cellars 2015 Petit VerdotSourced from Olsen Vineyards in the Yakima Valley AVA. Scintillating aromas of grilled plum and black olive weave through the expressive, full-bodied palate, inlaid with complex notes of violet, juicy red berries, sage and graphite. Warm spice and mineral notes extend the finish. $50

B. Leighton 2014 Olsen Brothers Vineyard Petit Verdot Opulent, rich and finely sculpted, exhibiting floral aromas and deeply concentrated flavors of lilac, violet, caraway and anise wrapped around an exotic core of black and red plum. Powdery fine, firm tannins elevate the complex finish. $55

McKinley Springs 2011 Petit Verdot Sourced from estate vineyards in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, this wine is medium bodied in style. Perfumed and floral, with mouthwatering acidity and flavors of juicy blackberry, light caramel and spice notes infused with lavender and crushed rock that extends the finish. $32

Beaumont Cellars 2015 Reserve Petit Verdot Aged in new french oak and impeccably structured, with a swath of bold tannins and broad, juicy mouthfeel, revealing nuanced aromas and flavors of plum, blueberry, fresh blackberry, flowers, sage, thyme and earthy expressions. $39

Bergevin Lane 2014 Paco Franco Cabernet FrancAn elevated version that manages to excite every corner of the mouth. Captures elegant, bold flavors of blueberry, blackberry, dark cherry and cassis shaded with grilled spices, loamy earth and vanilla notes. The structure is laser-focused on the complex finish. $38

SuLei Cellars 2015 Cabernet FrancThis single-vineyard red wine is SuLei's first varietal Cabernet franc. There’s exciting energy and structure flowing between viscous flavors of ripe cherry and blackberry, deftly layered with red currant and light caramel. finishes long, with earthy expressions of dried herbs and cacao nibs. $34

Cor Cellars 2015 Cabernet FrancA lighter bodied version, this was aged 22 months in 100% neutral french oak. Silky, balanced and vibrant, with tantalizing blackberry and raspberry flavors underscored with pretty expressions of violet, coffee and thyme. Crushed rock and earthy notes complete the finish. $28

Western BBQ beef burgers with sautéed baby portabello mushrooms

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Herb encrusted rack of lamb with roasted root vegetables

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Bacon wrapped beef tenderloin

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Braised lamb shank with rosemary

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Sauteed Italian sausage with peppers and onions

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kalbi (korean-style beef short ribs) or seared duck breast

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“Bachelor's pasta” with tomatoes, sundried tomato paste, anchovies, garlic and rosemary

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Caponata over pappardelle or chicken brined with garlic and rosemary and potatoes

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OR LInDSAY AnD JEff SLEVIn, the desire to become world-class cheesemakers was born out of their love

of family. “We were inspired by our twin daughters to pursue our dream of opening our own business,” says

Lindsay. They built a modern cheese production facility in their hometown of ferndale, Wash. and opened Twin Sisters Creamery in August of 2015. Lindsay Slevin received accreditation as an ACS Certified Cheese Professional by the American Cheese Society in 2012. “Jeff and I are the actual hands on cheesemakers,” she says.

Prior to making cheese, Lindsay had spent 18 years as a professional in the cheese industry on the retail and distribution sides. Teaming up in a family business that combined her experience with Jeff’s manufacturing and IT background seemed like a natural idea. They use only the freshest, top-quality raw milk from pampered Jersey cows raised at Twin Brook Creamery close to the ferndale cheese production facility.

Farmhouse Cheese A mellow, creamy cheese with a citrus tang and buttery finish that show off the luxurious cow’s milk. mUnCH Heavenly on its own, but makes for a sublime melting cheese. Elevate dishes such as a grilled cheese sandwich or Panini, mac and cheese, pizza, chili and burgers. SIP Oaky Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, merlot, Syrah, fruity Zinfandel. Equally good with hard cider, brown ale or IPA.

Farmhouse Cheese with Whole Black Peppercorn Same as the farmhouse but with bold, spicy notes. mUnCH With superior melting qualities and a kick of peppercorn, wake up mundane dishes like quesadillas, omelettes and scrambled eggs. SIP Robust, spicy reds like Carménère, malbec, Syrah and Petite Sirah

Whatcom Blue This elegant blue cheese doesn’t overpower, delivering a pleasantly sharp taste with a velvety-cream finish that coats the mouth. mUnCH Thin sliced pears, apples, figs, honey, pecans or sour cherry spread. Toss in salads or grill on top of steaks or burgers. SIP White wines with fruity, mineral and

floral notes like Chenin blanc or a sweet Riesling. Try bold red wines like merlot or Port.

fInD TWIn SISTERS at select stores around the Pacific northwest: Beecher's Handmade Cheese-Pike Place market, Central market, The Cheesemonger's Table, Community markets, fred meyer-murray's Cheese Shop, Haggen food, market of Choice, metropolitan market, new Seasons market, QfC-murray's Cheese Shop, PCC, Town & Country markets, Whole foods market. VISIT THE STORE 6202 Portal Way in ferndale, Wash. or online at www.twinsisterscreamery.com

Scrumptiously rich and creamy, these raw milk cheeses from Twin Sisters Creamery will dress up any occasion

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artisanal inspirationsWRITER John Vitale

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The inspiration for launching Twin Sisters Creamery came from owners Jeff and Lindsay Slevin’s twins, Maddy (left) and Lexi

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Trio of Twin Sisters cheeses include

Farmhouse, Farmhouse with

Black Peppercorn and Whatcom Blue

A Cottage in a Vineyard Armstrong Vineyard Cottage, Walla Wallanestled in a vineyard set amid the gentle rolling hills of the Palouse north of downtown Walla Walla, every room of this cottage delights the senses—offering breathtaking vistas of the Blue mountains, wheat fields and an estate vineyard run by Armstrong family Winery. A beautiful master bedroom with french doors opens to a wrap-around porch and charming guest bedroom. Leather sofas, an entertainment center and wood-burning fireplace add to the charm, with a fully-equipped kitchen and outdoor gas grill. Bring a camera to capture images of wildlife—deer and coyote, owls, hawks, pheasants and turkeys. This magical getaway is perfect for wine lovers seeking a tranquil vacation in the country, yet minutes from Walla Walla’s cultural downtown hub. Sleeps up to 4. www.armstrongwinery.com

farm-fresh Island Breakfast Comforts of Whidbey Winery Bed & Breakfast, LangleyProprietors Carl and Rita Comfort ensure guests receive a relaxing getaway at this bed & breakfast built above their working winery on a 22-acre Whidbey Island estate. Guests have traveled from as far away as Sweden to stay at this retreat. The island is home to nearly a dozen wineries and a distillery. Deluxe continental breakfasts are prepared each morning with farm fresh eggs, veggies and fruit grown on the farm. There’s no TV or alarm clock, just soothing vibes and an ultra-relaxing escape from the city. Rooms sleep 2. www.comfortsofwhidbey.com

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Prosser River Ranch

Armstrong Vineyard Cottage

Experience La Dolce Vita Red Mountain Villa, Benton CityRenovated to look and feel like an Old World Italian farmhouse villa, relax on over four acres at this country home. Situated on the Yakima River at the foot of the Red mountain AVA, the property is dotted with a vineyard, orchards and gardens. It's an easy stroll to Tucannon Cellars and a five minute drive to all Red mountain wineries. With generous entertainment and living quarters, this three bedroom villa is ideal for small groups. Birdwatch from the river shore while sipping morning coffee or late afternoon Chardonnay. Sleeps up to 8. www.rentredmountainvilla.com

Secluded River Paradise Prosser River Ranch, Prosser Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility found along the banks of the Yakima River in this sprawling riverfront ranch house—well within walking distance to a dozen tasting

rooms in Vintner’s Village in Prosser. Boasting five bedrooms and four baths, this rambler offers exceptional space and gracious overnight accommodations for large groups. Peruse the town’s antique shops, visit the farmers market and dine at top-notch restaurants. Stay in and cook or grill outside, basking in the glorious sunsets over the river with vistas of the Horse Heaven Hills and historic Prosser bridge. Wildlife sightings are common, including ospreys and great blue heron, plus neighboring goats, sheep and marmots. There’s abundant parking and even an RV pad, making this the ultimate haven for intimate wine country groups. Sleeps up to 10. www.prosserriverranch.com

Columbia Gorge River House

Comforts of Whidbey B&B

Red Mountain Villa

Petite Villa at the Lake The Villa at Siren Song Winery, Lake ChelanLake and mountain views will take your breath away at this “petite villa” in the heart of a seven-acre vineyard,

just steps from the winery, outdoor veranda and restaurant. Enjoy wine tasting, food pairings and menu options that include wood-fired pizza, house-made french baguettes and delicious handmade desserts. Take a private cooking class with chef Holly Brown (aka “Siren in the kitchen”) or tour the winery with winemaker kevin Brown. The villa features a fully furnished gourmet kitchen, vaulted ceilings and private entrance. It’s plenty roomy with two queen bedrooms and a pullout sofa. Only minutes away from the city center and walking distance to other wineries on the south shore. Sleeps up to 6. www.sirensongwines.com

Your Private Waterfront Retreat Columbia Gorge River House, StevensonOne of only a handful of homes right on the Columbia River, this one is centrally located for touring 30-plus wineries in the Columbia River Gorge region. This stately four-bedroom Craftsman home features three living levels. Take a front row

seat on the waterfront patio or deck and watch sailing boats, windsurfers and kiteboarders. A few steps bring you down to the river to swim, windsurf, paddleboard or kayak from a private cove. It’s an easy stroll to shops, eateries, parks and a grocery store. After a day of activities, relax on your own private waterfront just in time to watch the sunset and enjoy a glass of wine. Sleeps up to 6. www.columbiagorgeriverhouse.com

TOP 10VACATIOn

Washington’s wine regions offer a spectrum of first-class vacation rentals by owners. From a cozy cottage in a working vineyard to a winery-run B&B, these enchanting lodgings will keep you well-rested on your next wine adventure.

REnTALSThe Villa at Siren

Song Winery

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farmstead Retreat The Inn at Abeja, Walla Walla All original outbuildings at this turn-of-the-century farmstead have been restored to lovely, spacious, individual, and private guest accommodations. Each intimate cottage room or suite is decorated with elegant antiques

and rustic country curios. There’s also a farmhouse for larger groups, filled with modern luxuries. Enjoy wine tasting onsite before heading out to local wineries. finish your day curled up in a hammock with a good book, or watch a hawk ride the wind currents over nearby wheat fields. The beautiful sunsets and a vivid night sky are cause alone for celebration. Sleeps 2 to 10. www.abeja.net

modern Luxury in a Rustic Setting Zillah Lakes Inn, ZillahA sign in front of this sleek lakefront inn points new arrivals in the direction of its various rooms, each one dubbed after a local AVA. With rooms named “Yakima Valley” and “Rattlesnake Hills” there’s little doubt you’re in Yakima Valley

wine country. There are 20 wineries within five miles and plenty of other sightseeing in this area, from historic murals in Toppenish to the Yakima nation Cutural Center. The inn overlooks Zillah Lakes in a wide-open, rural setting that is close to the interstate and restaurants. Go fishing, play the six-hole golf course, or bring your pooch for a walk along two miles of winding nature trails. Rooms sleep 2 to 4. www.zillahlakesinn.com

Rejuvenate in a mountain Lodge Riverdance Lodge, LeavenworthYou’ll feel pampered the moment you arrive at this “personal lodge” designed for vacation getaways for small groups. With mountain and river views worth bragging about, the private lodge boasts two chef’s kitchens (yes, one on each level), a spacious deck, outdoor cedar sauna and hot tub, even a fire pit on the Icicle River bank—all the amenities of a grand northwest mountain lodge. Take advantage of the shuttle service into Leavenworth and enjoy wine tasting at two dozen tasting rooms. During the winter holiday season, the house is decked out with Christmas decorations and festive lights—just bring your own good cheer. Sleeps up to 10. www.riverdanceleavenworth.com

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7Glamp in a Tiny House Alexandria Nicole Cellars, PatersonCatch a glimpse of vineyard living with a stay in a tiny house built in the heart of an estate vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. There are several tiny houses to choose from. The “Jet Black Syrah” is one of our

favorites. This 392-square-foot, ultra-modern house lives larger than it appears—a glass garage door opens to a spacious deck and fire pit bordered by a vineyard with river views. The sleek, gourmet kitchen is stocked with wine on tap and french press coffee. You won’t lack for entertainment with the Apple TV and quality sound system, complete with a lighting package that changes colors and syncs to your own music. Sleeps 2. www.anctinyhouses.com

Zillah Lakes Inn

Inn at Abeja

Riverdance Lodge

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“Jet Black Syrah” Tiny House

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A. Winemaker Debra Stinger filling barrels with pressed Syrah at Adamant Cellars B. Winemaker Devin Stinger of Adamant Cellars holding up a cluster of Tempranillo grapes C. Amelia Wynn winemaker Paul Bianchi standing high atop a scaffolding ladder overseeing his Cabernet Sauvignon grapes just harvested from kiona Vineyards' Heart of the Hill Vineyard as they are processed through a Pellenc destemmer machine D. Buzz Buckingham of Sol Stone Winery and his not quite 2 year old grandson, Wyatt Brewer, at Antoine Creek Vineyard in Chelan E. Riso mcfelly punches down ten tons of Red mountain Syrah at Gorman Winery

haRVEsT & cRUsh PicToRiaLWe take you behind-the-scenes for snapshots of the 2018

grape harvest and crush season in Washington State

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