A one-day itinerary for Red Mountain AVA
- Wendy VanArsdale
- Sep 26, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 28, 2024
"Which wineries should I visit if I only have one day?" This is a question I hear often. Living in Washington State wine country, with so many fantastic options, even I find it tough to give a quick answer. How do you choose? That’s where I come in—I curate the best selections to create an unforgettable experience for my customers. I focus on three key elements: the wine (naturally!), the views (because a beautiful setting enhances the experience), and customer service (I only recommend places that provide exceptional service).
Recently, I had a customer who had never visited the Red Mountain AVA area and wanted to explore its offerings. I crafted an itinerary for them, and now I’m excited to share it with you. Whether you’re planning a day trip or simply curious about this stunning wine region, this itinerary has you covered. Plus, it is an easy one for the out-of-town guest because every stop is located on one main street, Sunset Road. This makes every winery easy to find, and gives you plenty of time at each location with minimal travel time in between.
Dive in and discover how you can make the most of your one day in wine country!
Stop #1 - Oh That View!
Hightower Cellars, 19418 E 583 PR NE, Benton City, WA 99320
These customers had never been to Red Mountain, so I wanted to start them off at the top of the hill to show them sights. The Hightower Cellars tasting room is designed perfectly to take advantage of these majestic views. Tim and Kelly Hightower grow 10 acres of Bordeaux varietals. They focus on sustainable farming and are involved in every step of the winemaking process. This results in a beautifully well-balanced wine that showcases the bold red mountain fruit. Their Red Mountain Reserve is one of my favorites.
Stop #2 - The French château
Hedges Family Estate, 53511 N Sunset Rd, Benton City, WA 99320
Anne-Marie Hedges grew up in France and wanted to replicate her home experience here in Washington State, and so the winery was built to resemble a French château. When you make your stop here be sure to plan for a little extra time to take in the views of the property because it is truly spectacular.
What really sold me on Hedges is when I learned about their biodynamic farming and biodynamic wine. The winemakers do not use any artificial additives - they work with exactly what mother earth has provided and from that deliver a wine that unfolds flavors developed by the weather and mother earth. The Syrah from this vineyard is amazing!
Stop #3 - 40 Years in the Making
Fidélitas, 51810 N Sunset Road, Benton City, WA 99320
Again with those spectacular views right?! Fidélitas has a beautiful tasting room and patio positioned perfectly to take in the views of the expansive vineyards.
Charlie Hoppes sources all the grapes for his wines from his Red Mountain estate. Charlie is somewhat of a legend on Red Mountain as he has helped several other wineries get their start, and you can taste his influence in them.
Fidélitas wines are top quality - but that is not the only reason I selected them for this one-day adventure. Their focus on customer service is another reason I send a lot of my clients their way. They have surprised me more than once with small details that elevate my experience.
Stop #4 - Red Mountain Originals
Kiona, 44612 N Sunset Rd Benton City, WA 99320
Kiona Winery really is the Red Mountain original. When John Williams and Jim Holmes purchased land on the mountain in 1972 with the vision of planting vineyards, everyone thought they were crazy.
The first vineyard was planted in 1975, and in 1978 they sold their first fruit to Preston Winery, making a positive and impactful change on the opinion of Washington State as a source of top-quality red wine. "The depth of color and fruit intensity was definitely a revelation as to the potential for Washington Merlots and Cabernets." -
Rob Griffin (1978 winemaker for Preston Winery)
In 1980 the first vintage under the Kiona name was produced - a Lemberger - which was also the first commercial Lemberger in the United States
In the years since, Kiona has expanded to produce several vintages, with Lemberger remaining one of the top sought-after wines. Its medium-bodied fruit pairs well with a number of foods and it is one of my favorites. While you are there, pick up a bottle of Old Block Cabernet Sauvignon - this wine is from that original 1975 planting, the one that started it all. It's the wine I pick up for special occasions, like birthdays, anniversaries, and that day we were all able to leave our homes and head back out to wineries and restaurants! (Oh yes...remember 2020?)
Stop #5 - With the flip of a coin
Frichette, 39412 N Sunset Road, Benton City, WA 99320
Greg and Shea Frichette wanted to move closer to family, either in South Carolina or Washington State - and with a flip of a coin their destiny was determined.
I was first introduced to Red Mountain wine by a visit to Frichette several years ago. I fell in love not only with their wine but with the relaxed atmosphere. Both Greg and Shea will regularly wander the tasting area and grounds to chat with guests, see how your visit is going, and maybe even take you on an impromptu tour of the winery.
I recommend pairing a glass of Sashay Rosé with their charcuterie and the "magic cheeseball" - I'm addicted. And if you are a BBQ lover, pick up a bottle of Punctual to pair with your next BBQ grilled chicken or cheeseburger.
Visiting Red Mountain
So there you have it - a sample itinerary that you could use to explore Red Mountain in one day, or, let us create a custom itinerary for you your friends.
(Updated July 2024)
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