New Gems to discover in Leavenworth

When Leavenworth is mentioned, thoughts of Bavaria and flowers bursting from storefronts come to mind.  Maybe for some it’s the upcoming Okoberfest (www.leavenworthoktoberfest.com) or the Christmastime lighting of the tree.    On a recent trip over the mountains and through the woods, I was fortunate to try some amazing wine, beer and to experience the Sleeping Lady Resort and Retreat.

While in town, you’ll see plenty of shops and wine tasting along the main boulevards, but plan early and book a private tasting at these wineries themselves.  You will not be disappointed!

Boudreaux Cellars is located on the Icicle River just outside of Leavenworth, Washington, four miles off the power grid (The only winery in Washington State completely self-powered), and just up the road from the Sleeping Lady.  It’s a bit of a jaunt, but definitely worth the drive.  The spectacular wines are a bonus! Rob is experimenting with Pinot Noir, Lemberger, and Reisling in our estate vineyard.  Boudreaux Cellars is open by appointment only, so plan ahead!    This winery got two thumbs up from all of us on the tour.

Next stop, ’37 Cellars.  ’37 Cellars is up a long road without much signage, but again, definitely worth the drive.   Chuck and Frank,  two brothers-in-law, decided that we wanted to make our own ultra-premium, hand-crafted wine so that we could enjoy more of it and share it with friends.  After a couple of years of doing this, their passion and desire to make more wine and make it available to other people led to the formation of a new Washington State winery  called ’37 Cellars.   Their wines are full bodied and fruit forward, just to my liking.  This place has plenty of character as the guys play bluegrass when not wine making and have an incredible wine tasting room.

Finally getting to the resort was a treat.  It was a long, but beautiful drive for me  from Couer D’Alene.   Once there I thought, “this trip is way too short!”   Too many wineries, good food and things to do all at this little resort.  Horseback riding, an amazing collection of art installation (Chihuly’s first outdoor installation in fact)  and the food was amazing.  Although I had my room to myself, it could easily sleep 4.  And, as their pet friendly, I will definitely bring Val next time.

I have added Leavenworth to my calendar again in December when the trees are lit and it’s in full Christmas mode!!!   See you Sleeping Lady till the next time!