Nestled in the heart of Washington State’s renowned wine country, Walla Walla stands as a beacon for viticulture enthusiasts. Among its impressive roster of esteemed wineries, L’Ecole No 41 emerges as a truly singular experience. More than just a winery, it’s a living testament to history, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to crafting exceptional wines. Housed within a beautifully preserved 1915 schoolhouse in the historic Frenchtown area, L’Ecole embodies a unique charm that captivates every visitor. For over four decades, this iconic establishment has been producing award-winning wines, firmly cementing its place as a cornerstone of the Walla Walla wine scene. During a recent immersive visit to several Walla Walla Wineries, the opportunity to tour and taste at L’Ecole No 41 was a highlight, offering a deeper appreciation for their celebrated vintages and the enchanting story behind their brand.
Established in 1983, L’Ecole No 41 holds the distinction of being the third oldest winery in the Walla Walla Valley. Its longevity and consistent pursuit of excellence have played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s reputation as a world-class wine destination. For those familiar with Washington State wines, L’Ecole’s labels are often recognized for their quality and true representation of the local terroir. Finally stepping into their storied tasting room, after years of enjoying their wines, felt like a pilgrimage – a journey into the heart of Walla Walla wine country’s rich heritage.
L’Ecole No 41: A Unique Educational Legacy
The very essence of L’Ecole No 41 is woven into its remarkable location. Situated in a quaint, historic schoolhouse, the winery’s name, “L’Ecole,” meaning “the school” in French, pays homage to its origins. This building once served as District School No. 41, adding a layer of charming nostalgia and historical significance to every visit. Its position on the fringes of Walla Walla, in the charming Frenchtown area, makes it a convenient yet distinctive stop on any Walla Walla wine tour.
While the old schoolhouse has undergone thoughtful renovations to accommodate modern winemaking facilities and a welcoming tasting room, great care has been taken to preserve its original character. Visitors are greeted by delightful details that nod to its past life: the iconic school bell still stands tall, chalkboards adorn the walls displaying wine lists and events, and even vintage school desks are cleverly incorporated into the decor. Outside, a classic playground swing set invites a moment of playful reflection, blending the joy of childhood memories with the sophisticated pleasures of wine tasting. This unique fusion of history and viticulture creates an atmosphere unlike any other among Walla Walla wineries, making L’Ecole a memorable destination.
Experience L’Ecole: An Immersive Tour and Tasting
The L’Ecole tasting room welcomes visitors daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, offering a casual yet refined setting to sample their acclaimed wines. A standard tasting experience, priced at $10 per person, provides an excellent introduction to their current releases and offers insights from their knowledgeable staff. However, for those seeking a truly comprehensive understanding of L’Ecole No 41 and the art of winemaking in Walla Walla Valley, the walking tour and tasting comes highly recommended.
This immersive experience, priced at $20 per person and lasting approximately one hour, is an absolute must-do, particularly for out-of-town visitors looking to delve deeper into the region’s winemaking heritage. Reservations in advance are strongly encouraged to secure your spot and ensure a personalized journey through this historic winery. The tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the entire schoolhouse, from its charming public spaces to the working winery facilities, providing a unique blend of historical discovery and viticultural education.
The walking tour begins in the heart of the schoolhouse, where you’ll discover fascinating details about its past. A highlight for many is the visit to the downstairs area, home to one of the original schoolhouse murals that has been painstakingly restored, bringing a piece of the building’s vibrant history back to life. As you move through the winery, you’ll gain insight into L’Ecole’s winemaking philosophy, from grape sourcing to fermentation and aging techniques. The knowledgeable guides illuminate the intricate process of transforming grapes grown in the diverse terroir of Walla Walla into the exquisite wines L’Ecole is known for.
A true highlight of the tour is a visit to the barrel room, a cool, dimly lit space where rows of oak barrels silently age future vintages. Here, the magic of winemaking truly comes to life. Guests often have the special privilege of experiencing a barrel tasting, a unique opportunity to sample a wine directly from the barrel, providing a rare glimpse into its evolution before bottling. During our visit, we were treated to a special barrel tasting of a promising new rosé, an exclusive experience that underscores the value of the guided tour. The walking tour and tasting culminates in a guided tasting of six current release wines, allowing you to apply your newfound knowledge to a sensory exploration of L’Ecole’s diverse portfolio.
L’Ecole Wines: A Reflection of Walla Walla’s Terroir
What truly sets L’Ecole No 41 apart in the competitive landscape of Walla Walla wineries is their deep-rooted philosophy: to produce wines that genuinely express the unique characteristics of the region. L’Ecole is committed to a meticulous approach, growing and crafting 100% of their wines either from their estate vineyards or from carefully selected, partner vineyards that are certified sustainable and Salmon-Safe. This commitment not only ensures exceptional quality but also reflects a profound respect for the environment and the delicate ecosystem of the Pacific Northwest. Their dedication to sustainable viticulture practices translates into healthier vineyards, richer soils, and ultimately, more expressive and vibrant wines that are true to their Walla Walla origins.
During our comprehensive tour and tasting, we explored a selection of L’Ecole’s current releases, each a testament to their mastery. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout L’Ecole wines that truly captured the essence of their craft and the region:
The 2014 L’Ecole Grenache ($36) is a beautiful illustration of what Washington State Grenache can achieve. On the nose, it offers inviting aromas of ripe red berries, a hint of white pepper, and a subtle floral note. The palate is exquisitely smooth and complex, unfolding in an almost magical transition of flavors. From an initial burst of sweet cherry and raspberry, it gracefully evolves into a nuanced mid-palate with hints of spicy anise and a savory, earthy undertone, culminating in a long, satisfying finish. This is a versatile red wine, perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes, from roasted lamb to hearty pasta. Its elegant profile also makes it a superb choice for dinner parties, a thoughtful birthday present, or a sophisticated hostess gift, sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseur.
The L’Ecole Perigree ($54) is more than just a wine; it’s a flagship expression of the winery’s legacy and the exceptional terroir of Walla Walla. As elegant and distinguished as the history of the schoolhouse itself, this rich red wine is a masterful Bordeaux-style blend, typically featuring a dominant proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It greets the senses with an opulent bouquet of dark fruit – intense jammy blueberry and luscious black cherry – complemented by intriguing notes of dark chocolate, tobacco leaf, and subtle spice. The palate is full-bodied and impeccably structured, showcasing layers of complex flavors, supple tannins, and a remarkably long, persistent finish. This wine is crafted from some of the oldest and most prized vine blocks within the renowned Seven Hills Vineyard, a vineyard site that L’Ecole has played a significant role in developing and managing. The Perigree is designed for both immediate enjoyment and extended cellaring, promising to evolve gracefully over many years, becoming even more magnificent with age.
Plan Your Visit to L’Ecole No 41
Ready to embark on your own discovery of this historic and acclaimed Walla Walla winery? Here’s everything you need to plan your visit:
Address:
41 Lowden School Road
Lowden, WA 99360
Contact:
Phone: 509-525-0940
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.lecole.com/
Hours:
Open daily from 10 am – 5 pm
To make the most of your experience, especially if you plan to partake in the walking tour and tasting, consider making a reservation in advance. This ensures a seamless visit and allows the L’Ecole team to provide you with the best possible hospitality. Comfortable shoes are also recommended for the walking tour, which takes you through various parts of the schoolhouse and winery facilities.
Beyond L’Ecole: Exploring More Walla Walla Wineries
While L’Ecole No 41 offers an unforgettable experience, Walla Walla is brimming with a diverse array of wineries, each with its own unique story and style. To further enhance your Walla Walla wine adventure, be sure to explore other notable establishments:
- Browne Family Vineyards Tasting Room: Known for its dedication to crafting luxury Bordeaux-style wines.
- Pepper Bridge Winery: A pioneer in the region, celebrated for its exquisite blends and single-varietal wines.
- Waterbrook Winery: One of Washington’s oldest wineries, offering a wide range of approachable yet sophisticated wines.
And of course, no visit to this vibrant wine region is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Discover the best local eateries and watering holes with our guide on Where to Eat and Drink in Walla Walla.
Our wine tour and tasting at L’Ecole No 41 were graciously hosted by Visit Walla Walla. As always, all opinions expressed and photographs shared are entirely my own. In my unwavering opinion, L’Ecole No 41 stands as an absolute must-visit winery for anyone exploring the exceptional Walla Walla wine country. Its blend of historical charm, sustainable practices, and truly outstanding wines makes for an unparalleled experience.