Taste Washington Month is happening all March, and wine lovers across the state are celebrating everything that makes Washington wine special.

To kick things off, we asked our readers a simple question:

What makes Washington wine stand out in your glass?

The responses highlight exactly why Washington continues to earn a reputation as one of the most exciting wine regions in the United States.

Quality Is the Top Reason People Love Washington Wine

The results were clear. Quality stood out above everything else, earning 65.9% of the vote.

Wine lovers consistently praised the craftsmanship and consistency of Washington wines. From bold Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon to elegant Rhône varietals and crisp aromatic whites, Washington wineries continue to produce wines that rival some of the best in the world.

Many readers also pointed out that Washington wines often deliver exceptional quality for the price, making them approachable for both collectors and casual wine drinkers.

Washington Wine Offers Incredible Variety

Another major reason people love Washington wine is the variety of varietals, earning 18.2% of the vote.

Washington grows more than 80 different grape varieties, giving wine drinkers the chance to explore a wide range of styles in one region.

Some of the varietals readers mentioned include:

  • Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Syrah
  • Grenache and GSM blends
  • Riesling
  • Chenin Blanc
  • Viognier
  • Chardonnay

One reader summed it up well:

“Trying new varietals is part of the fun.”

If you are looking to explore specific varietals during Taste Washington Month, visitors can use the Woodinville Wine Country Plan Your Trip map to filter wineries by grape varietal. It’s an easy way to find tasting rooms pouring Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Riesling, and more while planning your visit.

Washington Wines Pair Beautifully with Food

Washington wines are known for being incredibly food-friendly, and readers shared some fantastic pairing ideas.

Steak and Cabernet Sauvignon

Several readers recommended pairing Cabernet Sauvignon with steak, filet mignon, or hearty beef dishes. Washington Cabernet, especially from Red Mountain, is known for its bold structure and rich flavor, which stand up beautifully to grilled meats.

Seafood and Washington White Wines

Washington’s white wines shine alongside seafood. Popular suggestions included pairing Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, or Viognier with local favorites like shrimp or smoked salmon. A crisp glass of Washington bubbly also made the list.

Syrah and Grilled Meats

For grilled dishes, readers recommended Washington Syrah, particularly with rack of lamb or other roasted meats.

Other Reader Pairings

Wine lovers also suggested some creative pairings:

  • Grenache or GSM blends with schnitzel
  • Flourless chocolate cake with port
  • Cabernet Franc with shrimp dishes
  • Riesling with Asian cuisine
  • Chardonnay with halibut and beurre blanc

These pairings highlight the versatility of Washington wines at the table.

Experience Washington Wine in Woodinville Wine Country

While the vineyards grow primarily in Eastern Washington, Woodinville Wine Country is where many visitors experience Washington wine for the first time.

Located just outside Seattle, Woodinville is home to more than 130 tasting rooms, making it one of the most accessible places to explore Washington wine, meet winemakers, and discover new favorites.

During Taste Washington Month this March, it’s the perfect time to explore tasting rooms, enjoy wine-paired dinners, and experience why Washington wine continues to win over fans.

Raise a glass, try something new, and celebrate the quality, variety, and food-friendly wines that make Washington such a remarkable wine region.