Vines were planted in Washington in 1825. Later, large-scale irrigation using Cascade snowmelt made more of the state's sunny, arid land suitable for winegrowing. Washington has 21 American Viticultural Areas, or AVAs. Yakima Valley was the first to be federally recognised, in 1983; Columbia Valley followed in 1984. Columbia Valley contains nearly all of Washington's other grape-growing appellations and more than 99% of its European grape plantings. The Cascades shelter it from rain, and it receives roughly 6 to 8 inches a year. Most vineyards need irrigation. Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling and Syrah are the leading grapes. Reds can have cherry, currant and dried-herb flavours, while whites can show citrus, apple, peach and nectarine. Puget Sound lies west of the mountains, outside Columbia Valley. Its cooler, wetter maritime climate suits Pinot Noir and Riesling, and many vineyards can grow without irrigation.
2 named areas
Inside the region
Explore the wine-growing areas of Washington.
- 01Columbia Valley6 producersColumbia Valley crosses central and eastern Washington into north-central Oregon. Its dry, continental climate means most vinifera vineyards rely on irrigation. Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling and Syrah are the leading varieties.
- 02Puget Sound1 producerPuget Sound lies west of the Cascade Mountains, outside Columbia Valley. Its cool, wet maritime climate favours Pinot Noir and Riesling, while many vineyards can be dry-farmed.
Producer profiles
Producer profiles
Every producer profiled in Washington so far.
- Charles Smith WinesWashington State Riesling and Syrah from a former European rock band manager who launched with 330 cases from a 1987 Astro van.
- Chateau Ste MichelleWoodinville producer of Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Indian Wells Cabernet and Eroica Riesling.