Discover the dynamic wine culture of Vancouver, Washington, where the tradition of winemaking has deep roots dating back to the founding of Fort Vancouver, where wine grapes were cultivated at the original outpost. This legacy intertwines with the nearby Yakima Valley, marking the inception of Southwest Washington's diverse wine scene.

In recent years, Vancouver's wine landscape has undergone a revitalization, with downtown emerging as a hub for wine enthusiasts. Embark on the downtown wine trail, which offers a sampling of Southwest Washington's finest wines amidst the backdrop of urban charm. Washington's winemaking story unfolds as a captivating narrative blending New World innovation with Old World sophistication.

Despite its relatively short history in winemaking, Washington ranks as the second-largest wine producer in the United States, boasting a diverse portfolio that competes on a global scale. With over 80 grape varieties cultivated across 20 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), including the renowned blends of the Columbia Valley, Washington's allure is undeniable, enticing wine aficionados to indulge in its liquid treasures, one bottle at a time.

Embark on your wine journey in Uptown Village and meander down to the newly developed Vancouver Waterfront to sample the region's bounty. The best part? Most of these wineries are just a short five-minute walk from each other!

 

CELLAR 55

Situated between uptown and downtown, Cellar 55 offers a delightful tasting room ideal for indulging in wine year-round. During warmer seasons, guests can unwind on the serene patio, transforming into an urban oasis. Meanwhile, the stylish interior provides a cozy retreat during cooler temperatures. As a cooperative tasting room, Cellar 55 proudly features wines from Walla Walla and Eastern Washington, inviting visitors to craft their own personalized meat and cheese plates from the menu to enhance their wine tasting experience.

 

 

BURNT BRIDGE CELLARS

Located in downtown Vancouver within a renovated 1930s auto garage, Burnt Bridge Cellars draws its name from the nearby creek, a cherished destination for runners and nature enthusiasts alike. Specializing in small-batch wines made from carefully hand-selected grapes, Burnt Bridge upholds a hands-on approach from vineyard to bottle. Every facet of their winemaking process, from hand-filling to hand-corking and hand-labeling, underscores their dedication to artisanal excellence. To elevate the tasting experience, live musicians frequently perform at the winery on Friday and Saturday evenings, providing lively entertainment that complements the ambiance.

 

NICHE WINE BAR

At Niche Wine Bar, alongside an impressive array of wines available by the glass, half glass, and bottle, you'll find a tantalizing food menu to satisfy your cravings. For those in search of a savory bite, don't miss out on their Alsatian tarte flambée, a delightful culinary creation originating from Northern France. This pizza-like delicacy boasts thin pastry dough topped with crème fraiche, cheese, and an assortment of delectable toppings. So, pull up a seat at the bar and treat yourself to this mouthwatering delight as you embark on your wine trail adventure.

 

WILLFUL WINE

Situated within the historic Grant House on Officers Row, Willful Wine Bar embodies the essence of determination and independence in every pour. Focusing on Oregon grapes fermented using indigenous 'wild' yeasts, Willful crafts wines that mirror the untamed character of the terroir. Prioritizing minimal oak to highlight the fruit's natural flavors, their Pinot Noir captures both elegance and complexity, sourced from carefully selected vineyards across the north Willamette Valley. In addition to Pinot, their portfolio encompasses Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and red blends, each reflecting Pam Walden's steadfast dedication to excellence. With over two decades of winemaking expertise, Pam's determined spirit propels Willful Wines forward, where each bottle narrates a tale of perseverance and devotion.

 

SULEI CELLARS

Return to Main Street to discover one of Vancouver's hidden gems: SuLei Cellars. This cherished tasting room, brought to life by a Walla Walla winemaker, seamlessly brings the rich flavors of this agricultural hub to downtown Vancouver. As a woman-owned and operated venue, SuLei Cellars embodies a true passion for winemaking, presenting visitors with a taste of Southeast Washington's finest offerings. Don't miss the opportunity to savor wines crafted with love and dedication.

 

VANCOUVER WATERFRONT

Though this final group of wineries requires a bit more effort, the journey to the Vancouver Waterfront is well worth the extra steps. Enjoy the scenic shores of the Columbia River, where a collection of esteemed wineries awaits. Ending your Vancouver wine tour on a high note, these waterfront destinations offer both breathtaking views and exceptional wines, including the renowned Maryhill Winery's Tasting Room, honored as the Washington State Winemaker of the Year in 2018. Relish the stunning river scenery as you savor a luscious Cab Franc or sample a variety of outstanding wines. With prestigious locations like Willamette Valley Vineyards, Evoke Winery, Valo Cellars, Barnard Griffin, Pepper Bridge Winery & Amavi Cellars, Brian Carter Cellars, and Airfield Estates gracing these trendy waterfront spots, your wine tour promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.