Hurray for Hollywood, Woodinville Winery Pass

If you’re eyeing a wine adventure near Seattle, the Hurray for Hollywood Winery Pass offers a flexible way to explore some of Washington’s best vineyards without the hassle of planning each visit separately. Priced at $65 per person, this pass opens the door to up to four different wineries in the Hollywood District of Woodinville. The catch? It’s only valid Monday through Thursday, making it a good fit for midweek explorers or those with flexible schedules.

What we love about this pass is the convenience—you only need to park once and then stroll from winery to winery, tasting some top-notch wines along the way. However, a notable consideration is the timing: most wineries close by 6 pm, yet the pass is valid until 8 pm, which can lead to some scheduling challenges. This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts who want a curated tasting experience without the fuss of multiple bookings or those visiting during the week.

The biggest takeaway? This tour is best suited for those who prioritize flexibility and a variety of wine experiences over a guided, scheduled tour. If you’re comfortable navigating the wineries on your own or with minimal guidance, this pass offers a practical, affordable way to sample Washington’s renowned wine scene.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Choose up to four wineries within the Hollywood District, with the freedom to visit them at your own pace.
• Cost-effective: At $65, it’s a relatively affordable way to taste multiple wineries in one day.
• Validity window: You must activate your pass within 90 days and complete your tastings within 90 days of the first flight.
• Timing considerations: The pass is only valid Monday to Thursday, and most wineries close by 6 pm, so timing is key.
• Self-guided experience: No official guides accompany you, but you receive instant digital confirmation and a mobile or print voucher.
• Age restriction: You need to be 21 or older to enjoy the tastings.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Hurray for Hollywood Winery Pass promises a blend of flexibility and variety, making it attractive for travelers who like to craft their own wine day. We’ll unpack what each of the six wineries offers, what you can expect at each stop, and how the timing and logistics work.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Darby Winery
Starting your day at Darby Winery sets the tone with a focus on meticulously crafted varietals. Darby English, the winemaker, has over a decade of award-winning experience, and he’s known for balancing elegance with edge. Since the tasting is free and lasts about two hours, you can expect to learn about each wine’s unique flavor profile and the care that goes into Washington wines. Reviewers mention Darby’s passionate approach and knowledgeable staff, making it a great first stop for both connoisseurs and casual wine lovers.

Stop 2: DeLille Cellars
Next, you might find yourself at DeLille Cellars, a boutique winery that pioneered Bordeaux-style blends in Washington. Founded in 1992, it boasts a reputation for quality, with over 200 wines rated 90+ by leading publications. The focus on Grand Cru vineyard grapes from Ciel du Cheval and other top sites means you’re tasting some of Washington’s best terroirs. Expect knowledgeable staff who are well-versed in the nuances of Bordeaux varietals and wine blending—an aspect appreciated by visitors who want a deeper understanding of Washington’s wine heritage.

Stop 3: Lauren Ashton Cellars
The next stop offers a chance to sample award-winning wines in a more personal setting. The winery’s location in Woodinville’s Hollywood District makes for a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. If you’re part of a larger group, reservations are recommended, emphasizing the winery’s attention to quality in service. This stop typically lasts around two hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions and savor the wines.

Stop 4: Maryhill Winery
With more than 3,000 awards since its inception in 2001, Maryhill is a powerhouse among Washington wineries. Their winemaker, Richard Batchelor, is twice named Winemaker of the Year, and the winery sources fruit from across Washington’s top vineyards. Expect a wide variety of over 30 varietals, showcasing the diversity of the region. This stop is often highlighted for its impressive awards and the opportunity to taste wines that have been recognized nationally.

Stop 5: Patterson Cellars – Hollywood Hill
This venue offers a sleek, modern space and outdoor patio where you can enjoy house-brand wines. Since it’s a newer and contemporary tasting room, it offers a different vibe compared to the more traditional wineries, making it a nice change of pace.

Stop 6: Sky River Mead & Honey Wine
For something a little different, Sky River Mead offers award-winning meads made from NW honey, fruits, and spices. For those unfamiliar, mead is a honey-based wine, and this family-run hotel has been creating meads for over 26 years. Expect a food-friendly selection that pairs nicely with a variety of dishes, making it an interesting stop for those wanting a broader taste experience.

The Practicalities

Timing is crucial. The pass is valid from 12 PM to 8 PM, but most wineries typically close by 6 PM. This means if you want to maximize your tastings, arriving early and planning your route is essential. One review noted, “The wine tastings were great and the staff was nice at each one. However, the time is listed as going until 8 and most of the wineries on the list close by 6 so we were only able to do 2 tastings.” This highlights the importance of confirming closing times ahead of your visit.

Transportation isn’t provided, so you’ll need your own vehicle or arrange rides. Since you’re likely to visit multiple locations, a designated driver makes sense or consider booking a car service if you prefer not to drive yourself.

Duration: Each tasting lasts approximately two hours, so expect your day to span at least 4-6 hours if you visit all four wineries. Keep in mind that the total experience is self-guided, which allows flexibility but also requires some planning.

Cost and Value: For $65, you’re getting access to four tastings, which could easily cost $20–$30 each if booked individually—meaning, you’re probably saving money overall. Plus, you get to choose which wineries to visit, tailoring the experience to your preferences.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

The only review on record gives this tour a 3 out of 5, mainly due to timing issues. The reviewer, Jannene_M, appreciated the wine quality and friendly staff, but was disappointed that due to close times, they could only visit two wineries instead of all four. This underlines the importance of timing and planning, especially if you’re keen on visiting all stops.

Another highlight from the reviews is the knowledgeable staff at Darby Winery, which received praise for their passion and teaching ability. Although the tour itself is self-guided, having staff who are both passionate and well-informed makes a noticeable difference in the tasting experience.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

This pass offers great value for those who enjoy exploring wine at their own pace without the pressure of fixed schedules. It’s ideal for travelers who want a flexible, budget-friendly way to sample some of Washington’s best wines and enjoy a variety of winery atmospheres.

However, the timing limitations and the need to plan your day carefully are important considerations. If you prefer guided tours with set schedules or want to visit later in the week, this might not be the best fit. But, for independent wine lovers, the Hurray for Hollywood Winery Pass provides an accessible entry into Woodinville’s vibrant wine scene.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

• Travelers who enjoy self-guided wine tasting and want flexibility
• Visitors looking for a cost-effective way to explore multiple wineries
• Those interested in Washington State wines, especially Bordeaux-style blends and award-winning wines
• People with weekday schedules who can visit between Monday and Thursday
• Wine enthusiasts wanting to tailor their journey without a fixed itinerary
• Visitors who don’t mind navigating independently and planning their day

FAQ

Can I visit this winery pass on weekends?
No, the pass is only valid Monday through Thursday, so plan accordingly if you wish to use it midweek.

Do I need to make reservations at the wineries?
For Lauren Ashton Cellars, reservations are recommended if your group exceeds six people. Other wineries do not specify reservation requirements but might be advisable during busy times.

How long is each winery tasting?
Each stop typically lasts about two hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy the wines and ask questions.

Can I visit all six wineries listed?
The pass allows you to choose up to four wineries to visit, so you’ll need to pick your favorites or those with the most convenient timing.

Is this experience suitable for wine novices?
Absolutely. While some wineries are more educational, all tastings are designed to be accessible. Knowledgeable staff at Darby Winery and others make learning easy.

What if I want to visit more wineries?
You can purchase additional tasting flights directly at the wineries, but the pass covers just four tastings.

Is transportation included?
No, you are responsible for your own transportation between wineries, so plan accordingly.

Will I get a physical ticket?
You receive a digital confirmation via email and text, which can be used on your phone or printed out.

What is the cancellation policy?
It’s free to cancel up to 24 hours before your booked date, offering some peace of mind if plans change.

To sum it up, the Hurray for Hollywood Winery Pass provides a flexible, affordable way to experience some of Woodinville’s most celebrated wineries. It’s especially suited for independent travelers who can manage their own timings and enjoy tasting at their own pace. With thoughtful planning, you’ll love the chance to sample Washington’s renowned wines and discover new favorites in a relaxed setting. If you’re seeking a guided tour with scheduled stops and expert narration, this might not be the best fit, but for a self-guided wine adventure, it offers real value and authentic experiences.