Columbia Valley is one of the largest wine regions in the United States and is known for its beautiful scenery and excellent outdoor activities like golfing, fishing, hiking, and even skiing.
Its main attraction, however, is its varied selection of world-class wineries, many of which produce some of the most delicious white and red wines you’ll ever have the pleasure of tasting. As a wine lover, Columbia Valley is one of the greatest places to visit.
What Wine Is Columbia Valley Known For?
The Columbia Valley includes many other smaller AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), including Horse Heaven Hills, Red Mountain, Candy Mountain, and Walla Walla Valley, so you’ll find a huge variety of wines in the area.
White wines like Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, white Bordeaux-style blends, Viognier, Sémillon, and Marsanne are particularly popular in the region due to Washington’s dry climate.
However, red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc are also commonly produced and highly regarded on the international stage.
The Columbia Valley AVA is found in central and south Washington and a tiny section of Oregon. As of 2026, there are over 60,000 acres of vineyards across Washington, the vast majority of which sit within this overarching AVA.
In comparison, Napa Valley, another region known for its rich viticulture, only contains around 45,000 acres. So, if you’re a wine lover, Columbia Valley is a must-visit for experiencing some of the most renowned wineries in the world.
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Top 10 Columbia Valley Wineries
Now that you know what wine Columbia Valley is famous for, here are the best wineries you need to visit.
Best Columbia Valley Wineries Map:
Walla Walla Vintners: Great Tasting Experiences
- Address: 225 Vineyard Ln, Walla Walla, WA 99362, United States
- Website: https://wallawallavintners.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 509-525-4724
Situated in the Walla Walla Valley within Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Vintners is a historic estate set in the foothills of the Blue Mountains. The estate vineyards feature a high elevation and southwest position, giving it access to plenty of sunshine.
As a result, the grapes grown here ripen slowly, allowing them to steadily accumulate sugar while maintaining a natural acidic balance.
The winery’s gorgeous tasting room is typically open Thursday to Monday for tastings. From April to October, tastings are conducted outside, boasting panoramic views of wheat fields, the Blue Mountains, and the vineyard.
Tastings during the cooler months (November to April) are moved to the winery’s intimate indoor tasting room for a more cozy experience. Walla Walla Vintners is also available for private tastings on select days.
Typically priced around $50 per person, you’ll be treated to a selection of top-notch wines guided by a knowledgeable host, as well as a cheese and charcuterie board, and a tour around their cellar and vineyard.
Editor’s Note: On your visit to this winery, consider tasting the Merlot. It is known for rich aromas and flavors of boysenberry, blackberry, and raspberry.
Amavi Cellars: Sustainable Vineyards
- Address: 3796 Peppers Bridge Rd, Walla Walla, WA 99362, United States
- Website: https://www.amavicellars.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 509-525-3541
Next up is Amavi Cellars, another stunning winery in Walla Walla Valley in the Columbia Valley AVA. The estate’s vineyards are highly sustainable and the winery is committed to using only organic products and natural methods to manage their soils.
The Walla Walla tasting room is open daily for wine tastings, purchases, and pick-ups, with appointments highly recommended. It boasts scenic views of the Blue Mountains and the winery’s renowned Pepper Bridge Vineyard.
On Fridays and Saturdays, the winery occasionally hosts special Happy Hour events with specials on pours and local brews. Food trucks also regularly stop by to complement the outdoor experience!
Editor’s Note: Why not give the winery’s Syrah a taste? It is celebrated for deep aromas of dark rose petal, violet, and plum. On the palate, it typically shows strong hints of black fruit, rosemary, baking spice, and fig.
Barnard Griffin Winery: Modern Tasting Room
- Address: 878 Tulip Ln, Richland, WA 99352, United States
- Website: https://barnardgriffin.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 509-627-0266
Founded in 1983, Barnard Griffin Winery is now one of the most established wineries in Columbia Valley. It features a welcoming tasting room, a full-service restaurant (The Kitchen), and even a fused glass art studio.
The tasting room is open daily, with hours starting at noon on weekdays and 10am on weekends. The modern interior boasts original fused glass pieces and art installations by the winery’s co-owner, Deborah Barnard, creating a mesmerizing and intriguing atmosphere.
The tasting menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new to try. There are plenty of tasting options to choose from, including comfortable patio seating and more casual spots on the lawn.
If you’ve got a talent for glass fusing or want to hone your skills, the art studio at the winery offers special classes for all experience levels. You can learn the craft right in the heart of wine country!
Barnard Griffin Winery has a stunning banquet room and multiple outdoor spaces, so they can accommodate private events of all sizes. The estate is an ideal venue for weddings, birthday parties, and bridal showers.
Editor’s Note: The winery’s Cabernet Franc is a great choice if you’re not sure what you fancy. It typically features tasting notes of blackberry and raspberry with a sophisticated touch of minerality.
Frichette Winery: Amazing Private Tastings and Tours
- Address: 39412 N Sunset Rd, Benton City, WA 99320, United States
- Website: https://frichettewinery.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 509-426-3227
Located in the Red Mountain region within the Columbia Valley AVA is the fantastic Frichette Winery. The stylish tasting room is open daily from noon until 5pm for seated wine experiences, private tastings, and tours.
Private tastings and tours are a fantastic experience with friends and family. You’ll enjoy a carefully curated flight of wines chosen by your wine educator, alongside a tour of the winery’s vineyard and barrel room.
Frichette Winery offers delicious charcuterie plates, often utilizing fresh ingredients for impeccable flavor. For a relaxing day out, check out their lawn seating options, where you can sit back and soak up the unique Red Mountain scenery in splendor.
Editor’s Note: If you enjoy white wine, you need to taste their Semillon. It is known for aromas of pear and white flowers, alongside a clean, crisp finish.
Goose Ridge Estate Vineyard and Winery: Contiguous Excellence
- Address: 16304 Dallas Rd, Richland, WA 99352, United States
- Website: https://www.gooseridge.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 509-628-3880
Another top-tier winery in Columbia Valley is Goose Ridge Estate Vineyard and Winery. This family-run operation manages one of the state’s largest contiguous estate vineyards, spanning approximately 2,500 acres.
They produce a variety of wines and even craft cider and spirits, all made with a focus on quality and estate-grown fruit. The tasting room is located near the Red Mountain AVA and offers a peaceful ambiance with striking views.
The winery hosts live music and community events on a regular basis. If you’re looking for a stellar venue for a private gathering, Goose Ridge is an ideal choice thanks to its spacious and stunning grounds.
Editor’s Note: For a rich and smooth beverage, try their Reserve Malbec. It is typically packed with flavors of black cherry, cassis, and blackberry.
Tagaris Winery: Delicious Mediterranean Cuisine
- Address: 844 Tulip Ln, Richland, WA 99352, United States
- Website: https://www.tagariswines.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 509-628-0020
Known for their award-winning wines and Mediterranean cuisine, Tagaris Winery is well worth a visit when you’re in Richland. The beautiful tasting room and Taverna offer a wide range of mouthwatering options.
It’s a wonderful place for wining and dining in style. The food menu includes authentic Mediterranean cuisine that pairs excellently with their estate wines. The winery also offers refreshing sangria and wine slushies during the warmer months.
From weddings to corporate events, Tagaris is a popular spot for private gatherings. They have a full-service kitchen and bar, as well as private and semi-private indoor and outdoor locations for an intimate experience.
Editor’s Note: Their Riesling is one of the standout wines, often featuring aromas of green apple and vanilla with full flavors of pear and apricot on the palate.
Terra Blanca Winery and Estate Vineyard: Sumptuous Food
- Address: 34715 Demoss Rd, Benton City, WA 99320, United States
- Website: https://terrablanca.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 509-588-6082
Terra Blanca Winery is nestled in Benton City, a small but charming town within the Red Mountain region. It boasts highly-acclaimed wines and cuisine, the latter of which features Pacific Northwest and Italian influences.
The stunning Tuscan-style estate provides a memorable and relaxing wine tasting experience. The tasting room is grand and spacious, but you can also enjoy a flight or glass of wine on the luxurious terrace overlooking the vines.
The Vineyard Grill offers a range of chateau-inspired cuisine like homemade pizzas and fresh salads. The breathtaking grounds and estate are also available to rent for special occasions, with a magical atmosphere that makes it a top wedding choice in the region.
Editor’s Note: The Signature Series Cabernet Franc is a highlight at this winery, typically offering strong fruit flavors with a long, smooth finish.
Col Solare Winery: Terrific Tours
- Address: 50207 Antinori Road, Benton City, WA 99320, United States
- Website: https://www.colsolare.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 509-588-6806
With scenic views and high-quality wine, Col Solare Winery is a brilliant place to visit. A prestigious partnership between Marchesi Antinori and Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, they offer a range of elevated tasting experiences (by appointment).
Options often include feature flight tastings and estate vineyard tours. The latter provides a deeper look into the Red Mountain Estate Vineyards, often followed by a tasting flight of their premium wines. It is an investment in a world-class experience that is well worth it for Cabernet Sauvignon fans.
Editor’s Note: If you’re a fan of bold reds, you need to sample their Cabernet Sauvignon. It typically features aromas of black currants and cherry with hints of anise and cocoa.
Longship Cellars: Riverfront Tastings
- Address: 404 Bradley Blvd Ste 100, Richland, WA 99352, United States
- Website: https://longshipcellars.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 509-713-7676
Longship Cellars Winery is an inviting and stylish urban winery with a well-presented tasting room located at the River Walk in downtown Richland.
They offer tastings inside or on their roomy patio overlooking the Columbia River. While they’re most known for their phenomenal wine, Longship Cellars also offers an assortment of tasty small bites, including flatbreads, artisan cheeses, and charcuterie.
The winery hosts exciting events on a regular basis, including live music and themed wine pairings, so be sure to see what they have planned on your visit.
Editor’s Note: The “Ginger Man” Syrah is a perennial house favorite. It typically features deep flavors of blackberry and blueberry with a touch of pepper and spice.
Kitzke Cellars: Scenic Candy Mountain Views
- Address: 72308 E 260 Private Rd NE #7779, Richland, WA 99352, United States
- Website: https://www.kitzkecellars.com/
- Contact Number: (+1) 509-628-9442
Last but not least is Kitzke Cellars, located in the specialized Candy Mountain AVA. This small family vineyard allows them to spend more time nurturing each of their vines, resulting in highly expressive wines.
Their wines are limited in quantity but offer a flavor profile that is hard to beat. The tasting room is a welcoming spot where you can often chat directly with the family. They have outdoor seating on their patio, complete with picturesque views of the Tri-Cities area and the surrounding vineyards.
Editor’s Note: Their Cabernet Sauvignon and Nebbiolo are both fantastic beverages to sample if you’re looking for something with structure and depth!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for peaceful scenery, outdoor adventures, or delicious wine, Columbia Valley is the perfect destination for an ultra-relaxing retreat. The sub-AVAs like Walla Walla and Red Mountain offer diverse micro-climates that ensure every tasting is unique.
The wineries above are some of the best in the region, so be sure to check them out on your trip. But if you’d rather enjoy luxurious wine at home, wine clubs like Naked Wines are a great way to explore the valley from afar.