Washington State

Situated in the northwest corner of the United States, Washington State has approximately 400 wineries spread across five distinct regions, most of which are located in the central and south-central part of the state. With 40,000 acres planted, grape growers in Washington focus primarily on Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. In the south-central part of the state, the Columbia River supports vineyards whose varietals, Gewurztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Gris benefit from the cool marine breezes and temperate nights. To the east, the Walla Walla region benefits from a long growing season where Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon are the preferred grape varieties. Further inland, the Yakima Valley region, receives dry, hot summers and crisp winters, producing a range of varietals that include Chardonnay, Riesling and Merlot.