Wine Regions of Washington
Washington wineries benefit from grapes ripening with about two more hours of summer sunlight each day than in California wine regions. Gradually cooling Autumn temperatures in Washington also help wine grapes reach full maturity, while maintaining desirable acid levels. A variety of climates and soils combine with the long summer sunlight hours of northern latitudes to create prime growing regions, predominantly in the valleys and on the hillsides of areas east of the Cascade Mountain range.
Climates of individual Washington wine regions differ dramatically. Cross cut north to south by the Cascade Mountains, Washington State is more mild and lush to the west of this volcanically formed barrier than the lands to its east. In fact, 98% of the state's wine grapes are grown on the east side of the Cascades where five of Washington's official AVA/Appellations are located. The arid climate and conditions of eastern Washington permit grapes to fully ripen, while developing complex fruit flavors, pleasing aromatics and nuances. A few Washington wineries grow vineyards on the cooler, western side of the Cascades, where occasional marine breezes drift over the ridges of the Coast Range into the Puget Sound wine region, moderating temperatures and increasing rainfall.
All totaled, Washington wine regions produce more wine grapes than any other state in the U.S., except California. Wine grapes are now the fourth most important fruit crop in Washington State behind apples, cherries and pears.
Information and tips for finding end enjoying everyday wines from Europe and other major wine regions:
Copyright WineNews.com 2009