First-Timer's Guide to Walla Walla

Orientation in Downtown

Start at the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance visitor center for maps, tips, and recommendations.

💡Staff can suggest wineries based on your taste preferences.

First Tasting Experience

Choose a larger, well-established winery known for welcoming beginners. Ask lots of questions!

💡Tell your server "This is our first time wine tasting" - they'll tailor the experience.

Casual Lunch

Grab lunch at Graze or T. Maccarone's for relaxed, wine-country-appropriate fare.

Second Tasting - Different Style

Try a different type of winery - perhaps smaller and more intimate. Compare the experience.

💡Notice how the same grape variety tastes different from different producers.

Wine & Cheese at Hotel

Many hotels offer afternoon wine service. Decompress and discuss your favorites.

Dinner at Brasserie Four

French bistro with an excellent wine-by-the-glass list. Great for continuing your education.

💡Ask the sommelier to recommend a local wine to pair with your meal.

Coffee at Colville Street Patisserie

Outstanding French pastries and coffee. Fuel up before another day of discovery.

Tasting Room with Variety

Visit a winery with a diverse portfolio - reds, whites, rosé. Perfect for finding what you like.

💡Take notes on what you enjoy. Look for patterns in your preferences.

Light Lunch

Olive has excellent prepared foods for a quick, quality lunch between tastings.

Final Tasting - Your Choice

Based on what you've learned, pick a winery that matches your emerging preferences.

💡Don't feel pressured to buy. But if you find something you love, get it!

Recap & Departure

Review your notes over a drink. You're now an informed wine enthusiast!