Washington State is a hotbed for wine. As the second largest producer of wine in the nation behind the Golden State, it comes as no surprise the Evergreen State just keeps adding specially designated grape-growing regions to its sizable repertoire. Washington’s AVAs reflect the various and unique growing areas for its range of stellar grapes. From Red Mountain to Walla Walla Valley, and from the Rocks District to the Royal Slope, the font of fabulous Washington wines never runs dry.
Well, Washington State just cannot keep it under wraps any longer: a whopping 8 new AVAs have been announced today. With so many diverse microclimates, and so many vocal advocates rallying at the gates with pitchforks for proper vinous representation of their terroir (perhaps that’s the only way to get anything done these days), it was inevitable that these latest places should be added to the state’s already long and luminous roster of over 20 AVAs.
“These AVAs represent a significant addition to the Washington lineup… specifically, eight!” commented Benevolence Vineyard manager Phil Lorber.
In no apparent order, Washington proudly introduces its newest AVAs:
Fossil Heights – Ancient seabeds uplifted by dramatic geological events of bygone eras. Decomposed marine fossils create limestone soils, perfect for growing Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Semillon. The outlook for world-class sparkling wine is promising.
Bluegrass Mission – we weren’t sure if this was a music festival, but it’s definitely an AVA. It is located near a former historic mission and boasts favorable aspect. Albarino, Tempranillo, Malbec, Carmenere.
Moose Moraine – near Grouse Gulch. Known for moose in the area. Not sure why it warrants its own AVA. A lot of controversy with this one. Maybe it’s time the moose be adequately represented on Washington wine labels, and not just associated with Alaska and beer. You can’t hog all the moose, Alaska! Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Merlot.
Loess and Loam – provides an unusual combination soil profile which lends itself to wines of serious distinction. Emphasis on serious or distinction? You decide. It sounded trendy. Grenache, Chenin Blanc, Vermentino.
Blind Peddler Hills – the finest rolling hills boasting various strata of sediment and exceptional drainage. Legend has it that centuries ago, a blind peddler with heightened senses was able to sniff out the finest land for vineyards on earth. Unfortunately, he died from lightning strike as soon as he found the spot, so the region is just named for the general area where we think he meant. Riesling, Gewurtztraminer, Pinot Noir.
Raptor Crest – rumor has it that this is the next Red Mountain. Only the best of the best. Premium Cabernet Sauvignon, baby.
Predator Canyon – yikes. Kind of scary. Wines of darkness, hidden depth, edge, and cunning. Mourvedre, Syrah, Petit Verdot. Not to trifle with.
Fission Reach – new soil compositions found near Hanford. Really not sure how this one made the cut. Deeply concerned, actually. But they say the Sauv Blanc is a must try…?
Winemakers who craft wine from these AVAs are thrilled to be able to apply the new AVA names to their labels for the 2026 vintage, in hopes that the site names will boost sales and attract new consumers.
“Being able to highlight what place is really all about in the bottle is really what it’s all about,” commented Kaleidoscope Cellars winemaker Carmen Silverado. “Every bottle of wine I make encapsulates place and space. Each bottle of wine contains a message.”
When asked to elaborate further, Ms. Silverado started humming the Police song “Message in a Bottle” and disregarded my question. Oh well.
Other regions under consideration for possible official AVA designation in the next few years are: Wuthering Lows, Chalky Crest, Dusty Butte, Rainbow Ridge, The Cliffs (of Insanity), Bobcat Bluff, Ferguson Valley, Caddywampus Mountain, Wheatgrass Knoll, and Diddly Squat. Stay tuned for more details over the next few years!
“Let’s raise a glass to Washington: the land, the wine, the people. Three cheers!” said Nettlestone Winery winemaker Dennis Blankenship.
Three cheers, indeed. Happy April 1st, readers! 😉
The Rambling Vine 