Top Urban Wineries in Walla Walla

  • Wineries
  • by HANA-LEE SEDGWICK
  • on OCTOBER 4, 2024
  • 113
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Wineries

Top Urban Wineries in Walla Walla

By Hana-Lee Sedgwick October 4, 2024

Walla Walla is one of the most renowned wine regions in the Northwest, and it’s easy to see why. The Walla Walla Valley AVA, spanning parts of both Washington and Oregon, is home to nearly 3,000 acres of top-tier vineyards producing some of the state’s finest varietals.

So, it’s not surprising there’s an abundance of world-class wines and countless tasting experiences to explore. While many visitors flock to the area for its historic wineries and estates with sweeping vineyard views, sometimes a more relaxed urban vibe is just the ticket. Situated in the heart of downtown or tucked into repurposed spaces, Walla Walla’s urban tasting rooms provide a laid-back yet equally captivating way to explore the region’s renowned wines—often just a stroll away from local shops and restaurants. The best part? Much of the time the winemakers are the ones pouring! Below are 10 of our favorites.

Photos courtesy of Foundry Vineyards

Foundry Vineyards

Housed in a historic machine shop that was once part of the Walla Walla Foundry, Foundry Vineyards seamlessly blends art and wine together in one space. In fact, the winery doubles as an art gallery showcasing nationally known contemporary artists. Rotating exhibits create an ever-evolving backdrop for sampling their small-production wines, including their playful lineup of Pet-Nats.

Visit: 1111 Abadie Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Contact: (509) 529-0736

Time & Direction

Time & Direction is all about small-batch, expressive wines crafted with authenticity. Located downtown, the unassuming tasting room mirrors winemaker Steve Wells’ approachable, down-to-earth style, offering guests a welcoming spot to sip on vibrant reds and whites that speak to his passion for storytelling through wine.

Visit: 4 N. Spokane Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Contact: (509) 524-8200

itä Wines

itä wines is an up-and-coming winery located in Walla Walla’s Airport District, situated near the regional airport just east of downtown. While many of the Airport District wineries are housed in repurposed World War II army hangars and industrial spaces, itä is part of the Port of Walla Walla’s Winery Incubator Program, which supports the local wine industry by providing production facilities and tasting rooms to five start-up ventures. Head here to sample racy whites and light-bodied reds from owner and winemaker Kelsey Albro Itämeri, recently recognized on Wine Enthusiast’s Future 40 list.

Visit: 600 Piper Avenue, Walla Walla WA 99362
Contact: (509) 593-9055

Photos courtesy of Seven Hills Winery

Seven Hills Winery

Since its founding in 1988, Seven Hills Winery has made a name as a top producer of Bordeaux varietal wines in Walla Walla. Though the winery has changed hands, it continues its legacy from its historic location in downtown Walla Walla (Walla Walla’s only historic working winemaking facility). Visit the 1904-era building to discover Seven Hills’ range of Bordeaux-style wines.

Visit: 212 North 3rd Avenue, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Contact: (877) 777-7870

Pursued By Bear

Many may recognize Kyle MacLachlan from his roles in shows like Sex & The City, but the Washington native is also an accomplished vintner. His Pursued By Bear label has received high praise from critics, including for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The downtown tasting room is set inside a charming 1920s-era pink storefront—yes, pink. The inside of the space, however, showcases dark wood tones, leather seating, and velvet drapes, combining to create a sophisticated yet playful vibe that mirrors the personality behind the label.

Visit: 43 South Palouse Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Contact: (509) 524-8175

Gramercy Cellars

Founded by a Master Sommelier, Gramercy Cellars has earned a reputation for its Old World-inspired Rhône and Bordeaux reds, with Syrah as a regular standout. Located just a few minutes from Main Street, Gramercy’s downtown Walla Walla tasting room offers an approachable, laid-back space to experience these acclaimed wines.

Visit: 635 N. 13th Avenue, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Contact: (509) 876-2427

Photos courtesy of Dossier

Dossier

Founded by former NFL star Sidney Rice and real estate entrepreneur Tim Lenihan, Dossier was created with a vision to craft world-class wines from Washington—and it’s already delivering in its first few years by earning top scores from respected critics. Step into their sexy, stylish downtown tasting room to explore the lineup, including a rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, red blends, and a flagship Cabernet—all expertly crafted by winemaker Billo Naravane of Rasa Vineyards.

Visit: 8 West Main Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Contact: (509) 590-1399

Hoquetus Wine Co.

This Airport District winery, part of the Incubator Program, is an ultra-boutique producer of wines from sustainably farmed grapes in Walla Walla. The eye-catching label artwork offers a glimpse into the expressive, energetic wines inside—each bottle showcasing winemaker Robert Gomez’s creative flair. Stop by Hoquetus to explore his fun lineup of unique, boundary-pushing wines.

Visit: 596 Piper Avenue, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Contact: (509) 312-9148

SMAK Wines

Woman-owned and dedicated exclusively to rosé, SMAK stands out as one of Walla Walla’s most unique up-and-coming wineries. At her Airport Incubator facility, winemaker Fiona Mak crafts a rosé for each season, all made from different varietals to highlight the diverse expressions and nuances of rosé wines. It’s a must-visit for any rosé enthusiast.

Visit: 594 Piper Avenue, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Contact: (509) 629-9643

DAMA

DAMA Wines is the brainchild of Mary Derby, who transitioned from a career in opera to the wine industry after moving to Walla Walla with her husband. Following his tragic passing, Mary launched DAMA, which she now co-owns with her friend Judith Shulman. DAMA is known for producing excellent Bordeaux and Rhône-style wines, which visitors can enjoy at an inviting downtown tasting room, which doubles as an art gallery.

Visit:123 E. Main Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362
Contact: (509) 525-2299

Conclusion

With so many options to choose from, Walla Walla’s urban wineries and tasting rooms offer a fun and approachable way to experience the region’s diverse wine scene. Whether sticking to the downtown cluster or venturing out to the laid-back tasting rooms of the Airport District, you’re guaranteed to find great wines and welcoming atmospheres that reflect the spirit of Walla Walla. And be sure to check out our list of the best historic and vineyard view wineries in Walla Walla.