1. Get the lay of the land
You’ll find lovely views of the valley on Roza Hill’s lawn at Silver Lake Winery (pictured; $5 tasting fee; 1500 Vintage Rd., Zillah; silverlakewinery.com)―and some charming companions at Two Mountain Winery (free tastings; 2151 Cheyne Rd., Zillah; twomountainwinery.com), where you’re greeted by the property’s four dogs; our favorite is Bentley the basset hound.
2. Sip in style
Gilbert Cellars’ new small-plates menu, tasting flights, and chic reclaimed-wood furniture give its tasting room a wine bar atmosphere. Try the gorgonzola-stuffed, bacon-wrapped dates with a gutsy, earthy Malbec. 5 N. Front St.; gilbertcellars.com.
3. Curl up at a coffeehouse
Need a break from the grape? Get cozy with a latte at North Town Coffeehouse. The absurdly comfy couches down- stairs create a great reading nook. 28 N. First St.; northtowncoffee.com.
4. Explore on horseback
Sign up for a ride at Cherry Wood Bed, Breakfast, and Barn and get a backstage pass to Yakima’s gorgeous vineyard and orchard land. Starting this month, owner Pepper Fewel offers winery tours by horse-drawn cart, complete with a picnic lunch. $150 for horseback or horse-and-cart tours; reservations required; 509/829-3500.
