VanArnam Vineyards — Attraction in Toppenish

Talk about great timing! My wife and I headed out for a drive today and ended up making a delightful, surprise visit to the VanArnam Winery . . . thankfully!

While it is anything from high season for winery visits, our timing was nearly perfect! When we arrived around noon, the Seymore family (the owners) had just opened their doors to the public for the day but little did we know that we had such a unique treat that we were about to experience!

As luck smiled upon us, it so happened that we had arrived just as their production team was starting their disgorging process for VanArnam’s first ever, batch of handcrafted “Petnat”. Don’t feel bad if you aren’t familiar with this winemaking process as neither were we before our visit today.

We learned that Petnat is a process similar to making champagne but with only a single fermentation cycle rather than champagne’s two fermentation cycles. The result is a product with a slightly softer set of bubbles but that still offers an amazingly broad flavor experience! We know that now because Branden Seymore (VanArnam’s owner and head winemaker) personally offered us samples to experience, taken from the process right as we watched it unfold before our own eyes. What a unique, rare treat! As I said, our timimg was perfect!

Branden and his wife, Kayla, were so kind to share their knowledge with us and gleefully answer ALL of our many neophyte questions. We learned a ton from this experience and can’t wait to make a return trip to VanArnam once their MANY acres of vines “wake up” after their long Winter’s nap!

My wife and I would highly recommend taking your own trip to VanArnam Winery where the experience is much more than just a simple winery visit. The winery holds events, hosts an outdoor Summer Concert Series, has a Wine Club, and even offers a cozy Airbnb Cottage right there onsite, immersed in the vineyard, where you can safely taste away . . . . without having to drive home! Pretty cool!

All in all, what a great memory we made today for entry into our own family’s life...

A Magical Weekend at VanArnam Vineyards We had the absolute pleasure of spending a weekend at The Cottage at VanArnam Vineyards, and it was truly unforgettable. Nestled among the vines, with breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier and Mt. Adams in the distance, the setting was nothing short of magical. Kaela and Branden have created something incredibly special here. The Cottage itself was cozy, beautifully appointed, and the perfect place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the area. The wine tasting was a delight—every sip reflected the care and passion that goes into their winemaking. And as if the amazing wine wasn’t enough, we were lucky to catch a live performance by Eden, a fantastic band that had everyone on their feet with a high-energy mix of rock, blues, and pop. The atmosphere was joyful, welcoming, and full of life. We’re already counting down the days until our return in the fall. Thank you, Kaela and Branden, for such a memorable experience. VanArnam Vineyards is a gem, and we can’t...

I truly cannot recommend this winery enough. With its breathtaking views, welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and award winning wines, I have no doubt you'll be planning your next visit before you even leave.

It is crystal clear that Branden's passion for wine making runs deep. Take one sip of his many carefully crafted wines, and you'll be a fan for life. If you want to learn about the science behind his wine making skills, just ask him. He loves nothing more than sharing his love for wine making with others.

If you get the chance to experience a four course Amuse Bouche (I believe they have one each month), jump on it. Kaela is an out-of-this-world chef - you will not be disappointed. Her and Branden's perfect wine pairings will leave your tastebuds dancing. And, again, you'll be planning your next Amuse Bouche before you leave (we did).

If you are considering a visit to this winery, don't think twice. Go! The Seymour family will go out of their way to make sure your experience...