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Washington State Wineries
Have you ever traveled to Washington state? In the minds of some, it is rain, drizzle and coffee. Today, Washington state wineries are producing award winning wines. Believe it or not, some very prominent wines have come from this lush fertile northwestern state. Washington state is known as the New World Wine Region and has has over 400 wineries. It's prime climate along with long summer days and mild summer temperatures are just a few reasons for producing such award winning wines. Spotlight on Washington State Wine One of Washington states first appellations is Yakima Valley. With over 50 Wineries, the Yakima Valley produces a variety of varietals such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot and Syrah. Another is the Columbia Valley. Established in 1984 and has over 16,000 vineyard acres and produces some of the most prominent wines in Washington state. Columbia Crest , Gordon Brothers Cellars and Chateau Ste Michelle Wine Estates are just a few of the Columbia Valley Washington state wineries. The Walla Walla Valley also established in 1984 and has over 70 wineries. The Walla Walla Valley expands into the state of Oregon. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah are the most popular varietals harvested in this region. A very young but promising appellation is the Columbia Gorge. Established in 2004 and has only 4 wineries. With roughly only 350 acres planted, these vineyards are at a low elevation and are on south facing slopes of the Cascade Mountains. The wine produced here have caught the eyes of many prominent wine makers. The Columbia Gorge is known for its superb Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer, but also produces Pinot Gris, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Syrah, Sangiovese and Zinfandel. Puget Sound has more than 50 wineries, but produces only about 1% of the states wine grapes. This region Of Washington state AVA (see below) has a cooler climate. Puget Sounds climate is similar to that of the Loire Valley in France. The majority of wineries in this region purchase their grapes from vineyards in warmer, dryer and more eastern wine regions in the state. Like the Loire Valley wine region, Puget Sound is known for its Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris which adapt well in cooler climates. AVA: American Viticultural Area. A government approved designation for a wine grape growing area.
Washington State Wineries (top of page)
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