(YVV), Â鶹ĘÓƵ’s teaching winery, will host a French Market and Wine Release Party on Friday, September 19 from 4 to 7 p.m. at its tasting room on the Yakima Campus, 1606 W. Nob Hill Blvd. In addition to the opportunity to taste award-winning, student-made wines, this special release party includes two different styles of sĂ©millon, sauvignon blanc, cabernet franc, primitivo, tempranillo and YVV’s new red blend “Mochila Roja.”
This is a free event and open to the public. Wine tastings are available to purchase at the door for $15 a person.
“We first started the French Market and Wine Release as a way to highlight our French-style wines,” said Annette Wattenbarger, tasting room and program specialist, “but what really made it special was the community's incredible response. People embraced the mix of culture, cuisine and celebration — and asked us to bring it back. So here we are, year three, and bigger than ever!”
This year’s wine lineup will feature a curated selection of white wines inspired by the Old-World Bordeaux region, as well as bold red wines made from varietals originally from Spain, Southern Italy, Croatia, and back to Bordeaux — all grown and produced in Washington’s own Yakima Valley. These wines reflect a harmony of global tradition and local terroir, offering visitors a unique opportunity to taste the world through a Pacific Northwest lens.
Award-winning wines and newest wines available for tasting at this special event include the following:
2024 Bright Idea SĂ©millon
Crafted by the passionate winemaking students at YVV, Bright Idea SĂ©millon is a fresh
and lively expression of the Noel Vineyard fruit. This beautifully balanced wine showcases
crisp aromas of green apple and pear, with a refreshing acidity that makes each sip
shine. Perfect for sharing with friends on a sunny afternoon, this wine pairs effortlessly
with light salads, fresh seafood or a creamy cheese platter. Whether you’re celebrating
a small victory or simply enjoying good company, Bright Idea is a reminder that the
best moments start with curiosity and a great glass of wine.
Award: Double Gold Medal, Best of Class — 95 Points, 2025 Seattle Wine Awards
2024 Scholáris Sémillon
Crafted with dedication and curiosity by the winemaking students of YVV, Scholáris
SĂ©millon is a testament to both education and artistry. Scoured from premium vineyards
and carefully vinified at łŰłŐ°ä’s teaching winery, this off-dry sĂ©millon offers a beautifully
balanced profile. Aromas of green apple and ripe pear greet the senses, while a touch
of tropical fruit adds depth to the palate. A bright acidity harmonizes with its semi-sweet
finish, creating a wine that is both refreshing and complex. Scholáris – Latin for
“scholar” – celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and the hands-on craftsmanship that
shapes the future of winemaking.
Award: Gold Medal, 93 points, 2025 Seattle Wine Awards
2024 Yakademic Blend
Yakademic Blend is a tribute to the journey of higher learning where structure meets
creativity, and tradition blends seamlessly with innovation. The wine brings together
three distinct components, each contributing to a well-rounded, complex profile. Some
oaked sauvignon blanc (70%) adds structure and depth, the sémillon (20%) brings smooth
richness for a balanced finish and the unoaked sauvignon blanc (10%) offers a crisp
vibrancy. With aromas of bright citrus, honeysuckle and a touch of vanilla this wine
will go well with grilled fish, creamy pasta or roasted poultry. Whether you're celebrating
a milestone, unwinding after a long study session or raising a glass with classmates,
Yakademic Blend is the perfect companion for every step of your academic adventure.
Award: Gold Medal, 92 points, 2025 Seattle Wine Awards
2021 Primitivo
Ripe flavors of cherry and blackberry are met with aromas of blueberry pie, plum and
crème brûlée. This wine has soft tannins and a flavorful finish of dark fruits and
cola, mixed with some vanilla. Pair this wine with chocolate covered fruits or a pork
loin with a glaze sauce.
2021 Cabernet Franc
This cabernet franc has a hint of Bing cherry aromas, as well as red apple, caramelized
sugar, pink rose and a hint of spice. Flavors of peppercorn and cherry vanilla cola
with the structured tannins make this wine a good pairing partner with a steak dinner
or a simple charcuterie board.
Award: Gold Medal, 92 points, 2025 Seattle Wine Awards
2022 Mochila Roja
Mochila Roja (Red Backpack) is a bold, rich red blend of cabernet franc (45%), petit
verdot (45%) and primitivo (10%). Carry with you this blend that embraces sweet strawberry
aromas as well as ripe raspberry, oak influenced toasted coconut and a floral profile
of violets and daisies. Black cherry, blackberry and strawberry flavors are what gives
this wine a powerful character. Mochila Roja is a true reflection of dedication towards
achievement and an inspiration for all to taste. Arison Vineyards contributed the
cabernet franc and petit verdot that are the base of this wine.
2022 Tempranillo
This wine has aromas of black cherry, blueberry jam, black currant and notes of dried
herbs. On the palate these delicate aromas are complemented by a medium body with
impressive acidity and tannins. Tempranillo pairs well with many dishes like grilled
meats, meaty vegetables and smoky dishes.
Can’t make this event? Don’t worry, you can purchase Yakima Valley Vintners wine anytime by visiting YVV’s . For more information contact yakima@yakimavalleyvintner.com or 509.574.4794.
łŰłŐ°ä’s Vineyard and Winery Technology program prepares students for a wide range of roles in viticulture and enology, including vineyard management, winemaking and cellar operations. The program is designed for working adults, with classes offered in the evening. Students gain hands-on experience crafting wines from grape-to-glass at Yakima Valley Vintners, whose wines have garnered the most Platinum awards of any student wine program in Washington state. Graduates of łŰłŐ°ä’s program currently work at leading wineries and vineyards across the region. New full-time students who enter łŰłŐ°ä’s program in Winter 2026 are eligible for a scholarship of up to $1,750, with prorated awards available for part-time enrollees.