Though it is the second largest wine-producing area in the United States, the wines of Washington state remain an un-sampled commodity to many wine drinkers. The Washington wine industry was in the unfortunate position of trying to get itself off of the ground when the popularity of Californian wine exploded in the late 1970’s. Ever since, the wines of Washington have been viewed as something of an afterthought. Increasingly though, the wines of Washington are getting the credit that they deserve. Washington, and the Columbia Valley especially, contain some of the most intriguing vineyard sites anywhere, and each passing vintage brings a better, and more delicious, understanding of how great these wines can be.
Columbia Valley
The Columbia Valley, in eastern Washington, is the hub around which Washington wine making spins. Sheltered by the Cascade Mountains, the Columbia Valley receives less than 8 inches of rainfall annually, which means that winemakers, through irrigation, have extensive control over the ripeness, and intensity of flavor, in their grapes. A wide range of climatic conditions across the Valley allow local vintners to grow specific grapes in those areas best suited to their needs. Washington’s largest growing zone, the Columbia Valley actually holds six distinctive sub-regions within it’s borders. Of the 6 sub-divisions within the Columbia Valley, there are three that no self-respecting wino should miss out on.
Walla Walla
Of all of Washington’s growing areas, the Walla Walla Valley is the hippest. Like awkward kids flocking to Seattle to form bands circa 1991, Walla Walla has been flooded with young winemakers trying to get a piece of one of the most compelling growing areas anywhere. Though it now houses well over 100 wineries, a scant 15 years ago Walla Walla had just 7. The region’s hot, dry summers produce richly-flavored fruit, while unusually cool autumns allow for more time on the vine: infusing the grapes with complexity and depth. The coolest winemaker in Walla Walla, (and just about anywhere else for that matter), is Charles Smith, whose wines are as affordable as they are tasty. If, however, you’re trying to impress your date with something special we recommend you check out Spring Valley Vineyards, who make some of the region’s most outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon.
Red Mountain
The Red Mountain district produces some of the best wines in all of Washington. First planted in 1975, the Mountain is now home to a handful of wineries that wrest powerful, dynamic fruit out of the soil, under desert-like conditions. Red Mountain, with it’s warm, sunny days and cool nights, is perfect for growing slow-ripening varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling. Wines made from Red Mountain fruit are famous for their expressive aromas, rich fruitiness, and balance. Kiona Vineyards, who first pioneered the region, offer fantastic quality and value, but those with money to burn should check out the wines of Col Solare, a collaboration between the massive Washington winery Chateau Ste. Michelle and Italian powerhouse Piero Antinori.
Horse Heaven Hills
