Wines : Columbia Valley

-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.

 

(www.washingtonwine.org)