Great group of friends? Check. Afternoon blocked out on the calendar? Check. Motivation to taste world-class wine in Woodinville? Double check. Now… where exactly to go?
With more than 120 tasting rooms, narrowing the wineries you’d like to visit in a single afternoon can be a challenging task even for the most seasoned wine taster. That’s when an understanding of the Woodinville wine country “districts” can come in quite handy. By focusing on one district at a time, you will have the advantage of parking your car once and walking to a variety of tasting rooms.
We thought it would be helpful to break down the four main districts and the enclaves that are incorporated into each of them.
The Hollywood District:
The Hollywood District gets its name from the old Hollywood Farm and the Hollywood Schoolhouse still located in the heart of the district. The Hollywood District grew around Washington’s first winery, Chateau Ste Michelle, and now features more than 40 wineries. While the majority of the tasting rooms are within walking distance of the Hollywood Schoolhouse, the district actually extends as far east as Adams Bench Winery, as far south as JM Cellars and as far north as Novelty Hill-Januik. A number of breweries, restaurants and a luxury hotel – Willows Lodge – also call the Hollywood District home.
The Warehouse District:
Located on the hill in north Woodinville, the Warehouse District features rows of sandwich boards that beckon you to a series of industrial office parks. As the traditional boundaries of the Warehouse District expand, distinct enclaves have been established to help identify the different areas within the Warehouse District.
- Main Warehouse – Just off 144th Avenue NE, this area is packed with wineries. When you come for tastings, be prepared to experience an environment where the wine is actually being made. With forklifts and tanks behind many of the tasting rooms, chances are you might get served by the same person who made what you’re drinking.
- The Junction – Located just north of North Woodinville Way on 144th Avenue, The Junction is home to six wineries, a microbrewery, a distillery and a cidery. The buildings have large garage doors that roll up to give the area an open-air, sidewalk café atmosphere.
- Artisan Hill – Artisan Hill lies just south of North Woodinville Way as it winds up the hill. When you read about the up-and-coming winemakers of Woodinville, frequently they’re making their well-reviewed wines right here on Artisan Hill.
The Gateway Enclave:
The newest area of Woodinville Wine Country is The Gateway, right off Highway 522. Four beautiful tasting rooms have opened next to the new Hampton Inn & Suites. It’s the perfect place to stay and sip!
West Valley District:
A half-dozen wineries, a brewery, a distillery and a few restaurants make up this burgeoning district. The West Valley District is quickly growing and is destined to house many more up-and-coming wineries.
The Downtown District:
Although there are not any wine tasting rooms in the Downtown District, this area has plenty to offer those who are looking to explore a different side of Woodinville. From Molbak’s Garden and Home Store to 21 Acres Farm, local agriculture and unique shopping are available in downtown Woodinville.