12 aVANARNAM VINEYARDS - SUMMER CONCERT SERIES RATTLESNAKE HILLS Just 15 minutes from downtown Yakima, the Rattlesnake Hills AVA is one of Washington State’s most fertile grape growing regions. This unique area boasts ridgetop vineyards at more than 3,000 feet in elevation, higher in general than the Yakima Valley AVA overall. With 1,800 vine acres and two dozen wineries, this region specializes in cabernet sauvignon, malbec, merlot, syrah, chardonnay and riesling. The area’s wineries showcase distinctive, award-winning wines in picturesque settings surrounded by beautiful orchards, stunning views and acres of vineyards. With just minutes between each winery, it’s easy to plan a weekend tasting tour. Come roam The Hills, whether by bus, car, bicycle or horse. Most wineries in the Rattlesnake Hills area are family owned and operated, producing their wines from the ground up, from farm to glass. Unlike some larger wine destinations, here you can stroll through the vines with the growers and winemakers themselves, getting a first-hand perspective on how they make their wines. Each winery has a uniquely crafted tasting room, from Northwest modern architecture to traditional European and everything in between. Many of them have picnic areas perfect for a relaxing snack or lunch in the sun and they frequently host caterers and food trucks on the weekends. Don’t forget to ask questions! These winemakers love to share their wines and tell their stories. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, be sure to visit Rattlesnake Hills during one of the Yakima Valley’s signature event weekends (page 9) throughout the year. Many of the wineries offer something special during these weekend celebrations. Be sure to follow the wineries’ social channels for winery events and experiences, food offerings and wine releases and promotions. Learn more about the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Area at visityakima.com WINE COUNTRY TOUR & TASTE
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