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If you'd like to explore the wineries and breweries of Washington but don't have time to go all the way to Yakima Valley, consider a quick trip to Woodinville.

Just 30 minutes outside Seattle, Woodinville is home to the Chateau Ste. Michelle winery (among others) and one of three Red Hook breweries. Located right across the street from one another, both places offer tours, samples and the chance to educate yourself on the complex processes involved in the creation of your favorite pinot noir or porter.

The architecture in this area brings to mind a bizarre fantasyland for adults. Strange, pastel buildings loom and the steel frames of the Red Hook building suggest a magical factory where Willy Wonka might have worked, had he dealt in chocolate malts (the grains used in certain beers) instead of candy bars.

The entrance to Chateau Ste. Michelle is flanked by beautiful grapevines, but don't be fooled. These are solely decorative, because the grapes used in the wine must be grown in eastern parts of the state with a more forgiving climate. Visitors wind their way around the large Chateau to production facilities and a store where wines and all manner of goodies related to wine-drinking can be purchased. Tours are informative and short in duration, thereby allowing visitors to arrive quickly at the most enjoyable part of the winery visit: the tasting.

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