I have been in Walla Walla a few days now and have picked up some of the latest news.

 

Is Spring Here Yet?

 

When the Horizon Air Flight arrived in Walla Walla Monday afternoon, passengers, including myself, were greeted by 40 mph wind gusts as they got off the plane. Daytime temperatures are still in the 50's. There is not much activity in the vineyards as most vines are still dormant, either due to the devastating freeze of November or to the cold spring weather. The extent of freeze damage will not be known until the weather warms up enough for the vines to bud (or not).

 

Kerloo Cellars to Open a Tasting Room Downtown

 

Speculation as to who would be taking over the space formerly occupied by Sleight of Hand Cellars on South Second ended when Ryan and Renee Crane announced that they would be opening a tasting room in that location. Liquor license approval is pending, but the Cranes expect to open in early June. Doubleback Cellars and Caprio Vineyards will be taking over the space vacated by Nicholas Cole Cellars this summer.

 

Walla Walla Wineries Gear Up for Another Spring Release Weekend

 

After "Cayuse Weekend," April 8-9, wineries are getting ready for another Spring Release Weekend. Sleight of Hand Cellars, Charles Smith Wines and Trio Vintners have already had openings, but are planning additional "Grand Opening" events.

 

New Downtown Eateries

 

What's in the Kitchen restaurant and catering has moved to Main Street in a location formerly occupied by a jewelry store, as The Green Spoon. The menu is an eclectic combination of sandwiches, salads, burgers (beef, lamb and veggie) and vegetarian dishes. The liquor license is pending and, in the meantime, the establishment is offering free corkage., Another new downtown restaurant is the CrossRoads Steakhouse, formerly at the Crossroads Golf Course, now on West Alder in the location formerly occupied by 26 Brix. The steaks are thick, tender and delicious. Accompaniments are straightforward, Western style. Corkage is $15.