Our journey through the renowned wine country of Walla Walla, Washington, led us to a truly exceptional discovery: Amavi Cellars. After an enlightening visit to their esteemed sister winery, Pepper Bridge Winery, we were intrigued to learn about Amavi Cellars, located conveniently just down the road. The anticipation built as we made our way, eager to explore what promised to be another highlight of our Walla Walla adventure.
Upon arrival, Amavi Cellars immediately captivated us. It’s not merely a winery; it’s an experience defined by breathtaking beauty and serene elegance. The winery’s architecture harmonizes perfectly with its surroundings, offering an absolutely gorgeous setting. But what truly sets it apart is the magnificent panoramic view stretching over the verdant valley and rolling vineyards. This stunning vista provides an idyllic backdrop for a memorable wine-tasting journey, making every moment spent here feel truly special and unforgettable.
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Amavi Cellars: A Premier Walla Walla Winery Experience
Amavi Cellars welcomes visitors to indulge in their exquisite wines with a nominal $5 tasting fee. This fee is a small investment into a world of flavor and is thoughtfully refunded with any wine purchase, making it an excellent opportunity to discover your next favorite bottle. The tasting room experience is designed for comfort and enjoyment, but the real gem is the expansive outdoor deck. Here, guests can savor a glass of their chosen wine while soaking in the panoramic views of the valley below and the meticulously tended vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see.
To further enhance the visitor experience, Amavi Cellars often hosts a local food truck on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. This provides a wonderful opportunity to pair their exceptional wines with delicious, fresh cuisine, transforming a simple tasting into a delightful culinary outing. Imagine sipping a rich Cabernet Sauvignon as the sun warms your face, complemented by gourmet bites, all while surrounded by the serene beauty of Walla Walla’s wine country. It’s an ideal setting for a leisurely afternoon, whether you’re with friends, family, or enjoying a romantic getaway.
The standard tasting fee includes a carefully selected flight of three wines, offering a curated introduction to Amavi’s distinctive portfolio. However, the experience can often be even more generous. Depending on the season or if a special club-exclusive wine is available, visitors might be treated to a fourth tasting. This flexibility ensures that each visit offers something new and exciting, providing a deeper insight into the breadth and depth of Amavi Cellars’ winemaking prowess. It’s an opportunity to explore different varietals and vintages, guided by knowledgeable staff who are passionate about sharing their craft.
Beyond the enchanting tasting room, Amavi Cellars’ commitment to quality extends to its widespread distribution. Their wines are proudly distributed to 36 states across the U.S., making them remarkably accessible to wine enthusiasts. Particularly in the Pacific Northwest, Amavi Cellars wines are a familiar and welcome sight on store shelves and restaurant menus. This widespread availability means that if you discover a particular bottle you adore during your visit, there’s a strong likelihood you can find it in your local area, allowing you to relive the Walla Walla experience from home. For those seeking a specific variety or looking to locate their wines, the Amavi Cellars website provides a comprehensive distribution map by state, making it incredibly convenient to track down your favorites.
The Craft Behind Amavi Cellars Wines: Varietals and Vineyards
The name “Amavi” itself holds a beautiful significance, combining the Latin words “amor” (love) and “vita” (life). This philosophy of love for winemaking and life’s simple pleasures is deeply embedded in every bottle. Pronounced “ahh muh vee,” it’s a name that resonates with the passion and dedication found within the winery’s operations.
At the heart of Amavi Cellars’ acclaimed wines is the expertise of their distinguished winemaker, Jean-François Pellet. With a profound understanding of the Walla Walla terroir and a meticulous approach to winemaking, Pellet consistently crafts wines that express elegance, balance, and the unique characteristics of their estate vineyards. His vision guides the production of their primary varietals, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, which are celebrated for their depth, complexity, and remarkable aging potential.
While Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are their flagship offerings, Amavi Cellars also produces small quantities of other exquisite wines exclusively for the tasting room. These limited-edition releases provide an exciting opportunity for visitors to explore rare expressions of their craft, showcasing the versatility and innovation of their winemaking team. These special bottlings are often a highlight for returning guests and wine club members, adding an element of discovery to each visit.
Amavi Cellars’ exceptional wines are a direct reflection of their carefully selected estate vineyards: Pepper Bridge, Les Collines, Seven Hills, and Goff Vineyards. These 45 acres of prime vineyard land are not just parcels of earth; they are the soul of Amavi’s winemaking. Each vineyard contributes unique characteristics to the grapes, thanks to variations in soil composition, elevation, and microclimates within the Walla Walla Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area). The meticulous farming practices in these vineyards ensure that only the highest quality fruit is harvested, providing the perfect foundation for Jean-François Pellet’s winemaking artistry.
The first vintage released by Amavi Cellars was in 2001, marking the beginning of a legacy built on quality, consistency, and a deep respect for the land. Over two decades later, Amavi Cellars continues to uphold these foundational principles, consistently producing wines that are not only a pleasure to drink now but also promise to evolve beautifully with time. Their commitment to sustainable viticulture and thoughtful winemaking has solidified their reputation as a cornerstone of the Walla Walla wine community.
For those fortunate enough to visit Amavi Cellars during the late afternoon or early evening, a truly magical experience awaits. Do not miss the unparalleled opportunity to witness the sun setting gracefully over their sprawling vineyards. As the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant oranges, purples, and pinks, casting a golden glow upon the ripening grapes, it creates an absolutely breathtaking spectacle. This serene moment, with a glass of Amavi wine in hand, is more than just a beautiful sight; it’s a profound connection to the land and the cycle of winemaking, offering a perfect culmination to your visit.
Planning Your Visit to Amavi Cellars in Walla Walla
Amavi Cellars offers a sublime escape into the heart of Washington’s esteemed wine country. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or new to the world of wine, a visit to this remarkable winery promises an engaging and enriching experience. Beyond the exceptional wines, the stunning scenery and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in Walla Walla.
Travel Information & Contact Details
For more comprehensive information regarding their wines, events, and a detailed map of their distribution, we highly recommend visiting the official Amavi Cellars website:
- Website: www.amavicellars.com
Amavi Cellars Walla Walla Tasting Room:
Located amidst the scenic beauty of the Walla Walla Valley, their primary tasting room offers an immersive experience.
- Address: 3796 Peppers Bridge Rd, Walla Walla, WA 99362
- Phone: 509-525-3541
Amavi Cellars Woodinville Tasting Room:
For those in the Seattle metropolitan area, Amavi also maintains a convenient tasting room in Woodinville, offering their exquisite wines closer to the city.
- Address: 14810 NE 145th St. Building A3, Woodinville, WA 98072
- Phone: 425-483-7026
Consider planning your visit during the weekend to take advantage of the delightful food truck offerings, adding another layer of enjoyment to your wine-tasting adventure. With its blend of captivating views, exceptional wines, and a welcoming ambiance, Amavi Cellars truly embodies the spirit of Walla Walla wine country.
Explore More of Walla Walla Wine Country
To further enhance your Walla Walla journey, consider exploring these additional resources and nearby attractions. Walla Walla is a vibrant region brimming with culinary delights, diverse wineries, and rich history, making it a perfect destination for extended stays.
- Walla Walla Restaurant Guide
- Crafting Your Perfect Walla Walla Wine Tasting Itinerary
- Discovering Pepper Bridge Winery in Walla Walla
- A Deep Dive into Dunham Cellars, Walla Walla, Washington
- Essential Walla Walla Wine Country Travel Tips
- Exploring Whitman Mission National Historic Site