Columbia Valley
Established 1984
Yakima Valley / Rattlesnake Hills Printable Map
Tri-Cities / Red Mountain Printable Map
Walla Walla Printable Map
- Washington's largest viticultural region, covering almost 11 million acres (4,451,700 hectares) which represents a full third of Washington State's land mass.
- 6,693 vineyard acres (2,709 hectares) of wine grapes are planted and approximately 100 wineries are encompassed within its borders.
- Columbia Valley's vast size allows for a number of meso- and micro-climates.
- Vineyards are planted on predominately south-facing slopes, increasing solar radiation in summer and promoting air drainage in winter.
- Merlot is the most widely planted varietal, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
- Riesling and Syrah are also grown in significant quantities.
- Growing season of 180-200 days with annual rainfall averaging 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm).
- The Columbia Valley contains the American Viticultural Regions of Red Mountain, Yakima and Walla Walla Valleys, Wahluke Slope and Horse Heaven Hills within its borders.
