Western winters may have shorter day and longer, but that doesn't mean wine-tasting season has come to a close just yet.

Walla Walla, the unofficial capital of Washington wine country, provides wine and dining experiences that are just as enjoyable in the winter as in the summer. Traveling there in the winter is a completely different experience but just as refreshing and original.

Walla Walla is a tranquil destination in the winter since the valley's renowned vineyards provide cozy indoor sampling opportunities.

Valley of Guadalupe, Baja California, Wine Tasting

There is more to Walla Walla than just wine tasting. Learn about the agricultural history of Walla Walla by participating in February is for Foodies, a month-long festival that draws thousands of visitors every year.

There are several options for dining out, from costly fine dining to more relaxed casual fare. By visiting the Fort Walla Walla Museum, learn about the indigenous peoples, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the Whitman Mission.

Positions for Overnighting

In our most recent issue dedicated to wine, we highlighted not one but two of the most inviting hotels in all of Walla Walla. The Inn at Abeja is directly next door to the famed Abeja vineyard, so you can enjoy your entire winter wine experience without leaving the 38-acre property.

The century-old farmhouse has been lovingly refurbished, making it ideal for history fans interested in the winery's background and who want to sample some of Washington State's finest vintages.

Look no further than Heritage Resort if you're searching for the timeless allure of grape hillsides smack dab in the middle of wine country. The stylish guest rooms and lakeside bungalows feature modern comforts like free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a Nespresso coffee maker. Guests may unwind with a view of the lake or the nearby mountains.

How To Find The Best Wineries

The winemaking tradition in the Walla Walla Valley may be traced back to the early 1800s when French-Canadian fur merchants planted numerous varietals in neighboring Frenchtown. Walla Walla is now home to over 120 wineries, many of which provide tours and tastings, ranging from historic estate vineyards to modern tasting facilities in the city center.

Best Restaurants in Town

It's no surprise that Walla Walla's eating scene is on par with places much larger than it is since it has been a nominee for Best Small Town for Food at the Sunset Travel Awards on two separate occasions.

Maple Counter Cafe and Bacon & Eggs are good breakfast options, and Walla Walla Bread Co. and Andrae's Kitchen are fantastic places to pick up a picnic lunch before wine tasting.

The Marc, and other evening staples in Walla Walla shine by employing local ingredients and injecting global flair into regionally inspired meals.

Try Some Wine from These Walla Walla Vineyards

Some of the fantastic vineyards in Walla Walla that are within a half-drive hour of our five-star inn are listed below.

Woodward Canyon

In the refurbished farmhouse from the 1870s, you can now taste these renowned and well-balanced wines. Take in the pastoral scene of rolling fields of wheat and vineyards as you sip wines with an old-world flavor.

L'Ecole No. 41

One of the best vineyards in Walla Walla is located in a refurbished classroom of a former Frenchtown school. The room has its original woodwork and chalkboards. Since 1983, the building has been on the labels of its iconic and award-winning wines.

Waterbrook Winery

The estate was founded in 1984 and featured indoor and outdoor settings as magnificent as the estate's huge, strong reds and delicate whites. Grab a bottle of Washington's finest and claim a prime seat in front of the outdoor fireplace.

Cougar Crest

Relax in this Walla Walla tasting area and take in the panoramic vista of the vines beyond the large windows. You may sample several wines from the estate and snack on small plates.

Long Shadows

This Walla Walla winery is home to nine highly regarded vintners who combine their talents to produce some of the states of Washington's finest vintages. You'll be transported to another world when you book a flight or tour of the cellar in the ultra-modern Chihuly Tasting room.