Vines were planted in Washington in 1825. Later, large-scale irrigation using Cascade snowmelt made the state's sunny, arid land suitable for winegrowing. Washington has 21 AVAs. Yakima Valley was the first federally recognized AVA in 1983. Columbia Valley followed in 1984 and contains nearly all of the state's other grape-growing AVAs.
Columbia Valley accounts for more than 99% of Washington's vinifera acreage. In the Cascade rain shadow, it is dry to semi-dry and continental, with roughly 6 to 8 inches of rain a year. Most vineyards need irrigation. Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling and Syrah are the leading varieties. Reds often show cherry, currant, cassis and dried herbs, while whites can bring citrus, apple, peach and nectarine.
West of the Cascades, Puget Sound sits outside Columbia Valley. Its cooler, wetter maritime climate favors Pinot Noir and Riesling, and many vineyards can be dry-farmed.
Inside the region
2 named areas
Each guide keeps its place within Washington clear, with a direct route back to the map.
- 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 favors Pinot Noir and Riesling, while many vineyards can be dry-farmed.
Producer profiles
Producer profiles
Open the full directory when you want every producer currently placed in Washington.
- 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.