Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re thinking about a day of wine-tasting near Seattle, the Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour is often recommended and well-loved by visitors. With a solid 5-star rating from over 165 reviews, this tour promises a relaxed, informative, and delicious experience. It’s especially great if you prefer to leave the driving to someone else while still sampling some of the best wines Washington has to offer.

What we really like about this tour is its combination of expert guidance and its flexible approach. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the day both educational and fun. The variety of wineries, from large flagship estates to intimate family-owned tasting rooms, ensures you get a well-rounded look at Woodinville’s wine scene. Plus, the included transportation means you don’t have to worry about the logistics of getting around—just enjoy.

One thing to keep in mind is that tasting fees are extra—budget around $20-35 per winery, depending on how many stops you make. Some reviews mention feeling a bit misled about the focus on actual vineyards, but it’s important to remember that most of Washington’s grape-growing happens in Eastern Washington, not in Woodinville itself. This tour is best suited for those who want to taste a variety of wines without the hassle of planning or driving, making it a good pick for casual wine lovers or small groups.

This experience appeals most to those who appreciate friendly guides, diverse wine selections, and a hassle-free day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a fun, educational outing, this tour can fit the bill.

Key Points

• All About Convenience: Included private transportation and pickup from Seattle, Bellevue, or Kirkland make the day easy and stress-free.
• Diverse Wineries: Expect a blend of large, boutique, and family-owned spots, each offering unique atmospheres and wines.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help elevate the experience, sharing insights about Washington wines and tailoring stops around your preferences.
• Extra Costs: Wine tasting fees and lunch are not included, so budget accordingly—most tasting fees are $20-30 per stop.
• Flexible and Customizable: The tour can adapt based on guest preferences, which means your tasting experience can be tailored.
• Good Value: At $120 per person for a full-day experience, including transportation and guided tastings, it presents a solid value for wine lovers.

The Itinerary in Detail

First stop: Chateau Ste. Michelle or a flagship winery

The day kicks off at a larger, well-known winery where you’ll sample 4-6 wines, possibly including some bubbly. The tasting fee here usually runs around $40 unless you buy wine. This initial stop sets a celebratory tone and introduces you to some of Washington’s most iconic wines. The reviews highlight how much guests enjoy the variety offered—“this wine tasting tour was absolutely spectacular,” says Allison.

Second stop: Smaller, boutique winery or tasting room

Next, you’ll visit a more intimate winery or tasting room, often offering the option to buy lunch. This part of the day is great because you get a sense of the local family-owned vibe. Expect to budget around $20-30 for lunch and another $20-25 for tastings. Guests have appreciated the variety here, with one reviewer mentioning the chance to try wines from smaller, family-run spots that aren’t as commercial.

Final stops: Boutique wineries and family-owned tasting rooms

The last stops usually include two smaller, boutique wineries—places that pride themselves on personal service and unique wines. These intimate settings often have a cozy, welcoming feel. Most tasting fees are again between $20-30, but some may be waived with wine purchases. Reviewers frequently mention how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are, making the experience more engaging.

Return to your lodging

After a full day of tasting and exploring, you’ll head back to your starting point. The tour typically lasts around 7 hours, which includes travel, tastings, and lunch. This means you get a leisurely day without feeling rushed, and the small group size (up to 13 travelers) keeps things intimate.

Transportation and Guides

One of the best parts of this tour is the private, air-conditioned vehicle. Guests consistently praise the guides, especially for their warmth and expertise. Rudy and Peter are mentioned multiple times as guides who go above and beyond, sharing wine knowledge and making everyone feel comfortable. The reviews indicate that guides are attentive to group preferences and ready to make suggestions based on your taste.

Some reviews note the vehicle’s comfort and the ease of entry, especially for those with mobility concerns. The tour isn’t recommended for those with steep steps or mobility issues, but overall, it’s accessible to most.

Price and Value

At $120 per person, the tour is often considered a good deal for a full day of guided tasting, transportation, and personalized service. Keep in mind that tasting fees and lunch are extra, but these are typical costs for wine tastings in the area. Many guests find that the guide’s local knowledge and the convenience of transportation make the extra costs worthwhile.

Several reviews highlight how the tour brings together a good variety of wineries and that the guides’ professionalism enhances the day. Guests also appreciate that the tour is customizable, meaning it can cater to your preferences—whether you want more reds, whites, or specific wineries.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, small groups, couples, or friends wanting a relaxed day out without worrying about driving. It’s also suited for those new to Washington wines who want an overview of the region’s offerings. If you’re looking for scenic vineyard views, keep in mind that most grapes are grown in East Washington, but you’ll still get a taste of Washington wine spirit. The tour is not specifically family-oriented, but it can be suitable for older children or teens if they enjoy wine and group tours.

Final Thoughts

The Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour offers a well-rounded, friendly, and educational way to experience Washington’s wine scene. The combination of knowledgeable guides, diverse wineries, and stress-free transportation makes it a strong choice for those who want to relax and focus on tasting rather than planning. It’s especially convenient for visitors who want a safe, curated experience that balances big-name estates with cozy, family-owned wineries.

While tasting fees and lunch costs are additional, many guests find the overall experience to be quite good value for the price, given the quality of the stops and the guides. If you’re someone who appreciates good wine, friendly service, and a day well spent exploring the region, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Are tasting fees included in the tour price? No, tasting fees are extra, typically between $20-35 per winery. Some may be waived if you purchase wine.

How many wines will I taste at each stop? Expect around 4-7 wines per winery, with the total depending on how many stops you visit. Bottled water is provided to keep your palate fresh.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included, but the tour makes reservations at a local winery district restaurant or wine bar, where you can buy your own meal, usually costing around $15-30.

What types of wine will I encounter? Washington produces about 57% red and 43% white wines. The tour can be tailored to your preferences, and guides are happy to suggest options.

What is the duration of the tour? About 7 hours, including transportation, tastings, and lunch.

Is transportation provided? Yes, private, air-conditioned transportation is included, with pickup from Seattle, Bellevue, or Kirkland.

Can I customize the stops? Yes, the stops can be adapted based on guest preferences, making the experience more personalized.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues? There are steep steps into some wineries and onto the vehicle, so it’s best for those with good mobility.

In summary, if you’re after a laid-back, guide-led exploration of Woodinville’s wines with the comfort of private transport and friendly guides, this tour is worth considering. It balances well-known wineries with smaller, family-run spots and gives you a taste of what makes Washington wine special—all without the hassle of organizing your own day.