The glaciers resting upon what is now Washington State retreated a mere 16,000 years ago, leaving behind a free-draining gravel bed and the promise of fame and fortune in the viticultural world to come. Persistent lava flows created volcanic-based topsoil, and the combination of the two are the foundation for Washington’s flourishing wine industry. In 1825, the Hudson’s Bay Company planted the first wine grapes, and by 1910 every corner of the state was planted with vines. Following Prohibition, the state had 38 wineries and during the 1960s the industry grew by leaps and bounds. Today, Washington has over 200 wineries of all sizes, most located east of the natural rain barrier provided by the Cascade Mountains. Vignerons take advantage of long sunlight hours (on average, two more hours a day than in California) and a consistent growing season. The grapes attain optimal ripening, while maintaining natural acidity.
Columbia Valley
The Columbia Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area), most known for its structured Cabernet Sauvignons and jammy Merlots, comprises 90% of Washington State’s wine industry. This massive appellation, with over 16,000 acres under vine and well over 300 wineries, was the driving force behind the development of the state’s wine industry. It is geographically defined by three mountain ranges that border it on every side but the east, and by the Snake, Yakima and Columbia Rivers which converge within it. Located in the lee of the Cascade Mountains, the area is sheltered from the marine climate to the west, and is left with semi-desert conditions. While portions of this appellation cross into Oregon, the majority of wine activity occurs on the Washington State side. The Columbia Valley appellation was created as a stepping stone for the definition of other viticultural areas in the state. Subsequently, smaller and more distinct appellations have been created within it.
Other Washington State AVAs
- Columbia Gorge AVA
- Horse Heaven Hills AVA
- Puget Sound AVA
- Rattlesnake Hills AVA
- Red Mountain AVA
- Wahluke Slope AVA
- Walla Walla Valley AVA
- Yakima Valley AVA