I don’t have a theme for today’s column and I’ve learned that not having one can turn into the theme itself. Years ago, when Art Fleming hosted the original version of the television game show, “Jeopardy!” there was a smattering of oddly named, miscellaneous categories such as “leftovers,” “goulash,” “potpourri,” and “hodgepodge.” As a youngster, […]

If you enjoy visiting wineries like I do, you know that not every tasting room is conveniently located side-by-side in an industrial park or relatively close to a major highway. Steppe Cellars is one of those slightly out-of-the-way wineries. From exit 63 off Interstate 82 in the Yakima Valley, you’ll need to allow for about […]

The Walla Walla airport may seem like an unlikely setting for a winery and yet there are a good 15 to 20 tasting rooms nearby. In a city where everything seems to be within easy reach, you’ll find these wineries are conveniently located just a few minutes’ drive east of downtown. Today I’ll wrap up […]

It may surprise you to know that distinct American wine growing regions (referred to as appellations) are not determined by wineries, grape growers or even state authority. They’re designated by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, a branch of the United States Department of the Treasury. Because of this, appellations can extend beyond […]

Earlier this year, the Washington Wine Commission released the findings of a study that emphasized just how much of an impact the Washington wine industry has on the state and national economy. Some of the more impressive results: • The wine industry contributes $8.6 billion annually to the state economy, more than double the $3 […]