Horse Heaven Hills: A Photo Essay to Warm You Up

Baby, it’s cold outside.

My husband and I, along with our two boys, went on a walk after dinner and my teeth chattered through the entire shiver-centric stroll. Images of the hottest days from this past summer kept conjuring up in my mind; specifically, images of a three day trip to southeastern Washington’s Horse Heaven Hills AVA. Memories of poolside lounging, vineyard touring, chilled Chardonnays, bold Cabernets and delectable foods helped me make it through the frigid walk.

Located in an area that boasts a very arid and often windy climate, Horse Heaven Hills is home to both large (Chateau Ste. Michelle) and small (Martinez and Martinez) wineries that have staked a claim to stellar Cabernet Sauvignons. Spending a few days at the stunningly beautiful Mercer Estates Ranch House (thanks to the PR and Marketing Pros at Trellis Growth Partners), gave me the opportunity to explore this region and some of its well-known (and lesser-known) wineries that are truly producing some outstanding, high-quality wines. From Viogniers and Chardonnays to Syrahs and Malbecs, there’s a diverse selection that can’t be overlooked, in spite of their big, bold, juicy Cabernets that certainly receives much-deserved attention from esteemed wine critics around the globe.

It wasn’t just the wine that made me fall head over heels for Horse Heaven Hills, but it was the people, as well. The folks behind the mouthwatering wines are truly passionate about the land they farm and the wines they create – they love what they do and it shows. They work together to strive for a unified region that reflects their camaraderie and togetherness, it was simply fun just being around them. Add the beauty of the region to the wine and people, and it’s a little slice of heaven, right here on earth.

My fond memories of the three cloudless, blue skied and super hot days spent in Horse Heaven Hills prompted me to look through the photos from my trip, and I just had to share.