Beginner's Guide to Understanding Washington Wine

The story of Washington's wine industry is one of rapid growth, innovation, and world-class quality. While grape growing in Washington dates back to the early 1800s, the modern industry began to take shape in the 1960s with the establishment of pioneering wineries like Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Winery. The state's unique climate — warm, dry summers and cool nights — proved ideal for viticulture, allowing for bold, balanced wines with vibrant acidity.

Over the decades, Washington's wine scene has expanded dramatically, with over 1,000 wineries and 60,000 acres of vineyards today. Key regions like the Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley, and Yakima Valley produce diverse varietals, from robust Cabernet Sauvignon to crisp Riesling. The state is now the second-largest wine producer in the U.S., consistently earning international recognition for quality.

Many Washington residents are aware of the state's growing reputation for great wines and have probably tried to look for Washington wines on the grocery store shelves. But if you're a total beginner when it comes to wine, it can feel intimidating to try to choose a bottle for dinner, let alone become an expert on "terroir" and the science of winemaking.

You're in good company — and we made this guide for you!

The first thing to understand is that wine is more complex than just "white" and "red." Each variety of red or white grape brings different characteristics to its wine, and those characteristics are highly influenced by the place and conditions where the grape was grown. Those unique characteristics are what give wine its "tasting notes" and can often be what separates a great wine from all the rest.

It all starts with the soil and climate where the grapes are grown, which means that wines from different areas can have very different characteristics. American Viticultural Areas, or AVAs, are designated wine grape-growing regions in the United States, and each of the 21 AVAs in Washington (mapped out below) produces a different character in its wines.

Once you decide that you like, say, syrah, head to this site (www.washingtonwine.org/regions-and- avas/) to see which Washington AVAs specialize in syrah. Then challenge yourself to try each AVA for yourself to see if you can taste the difference!

PRO TIP: The wine rack in your local grocery store is probably organized by these different varieties. Taste them each (please drink responsibly) to discover which you like the best! When you taste a wine, get fancy with it: Swirl it around your glass, looking closely at its color. Stick your nose in the glass and inhale deeply – what do you smell? Take a small sip and hold it in your mouth for a moment before swallowing. Pay attention to the aftertaste (finish). Does it linger or fade quickly? Try to describe what you're smelling, tasting, or seeing.