Zillah, WASH.--It's known to be one of the busiest weekends for local wineries, but some owners said the customers just didn't come out this year for "Thanksgiving in Wine Country."
Hyatt Vineyards in Zillah said their sales mostly stayed the same, but foot traffic was much slower compared to years past.
Winery owners believe it's likely the result of a slow economy. Also, competition has grown among wineries in the Yakima Valley. New ones are being built every year.
"Definitely competition," said Janet Hutchinson, who works in the tasting room for Hyatt Vineyards. "Getting out there for the dollars that the customers do have."
Bonair Winery said they were extremely busy Saturday, but like Hyatt, saw slower turnouts on Friday and Sunday. Hyatt vineyards said the poor turnout Friday could also have been related to the Apple Cup.
