- The second largest producing state in the United States; rain shadow desert climate (annual rainfall is often less than 200mm), irrigation is necessary; high latitude and long sunshine; severe cold in winter is the main risk (general knowledge).
- Sub AVA:
- Red Mountain: The hottest and smallest famous area in the state - Condensed Cabernet Sauvignon (Quilceda Creek, etc., general knowledge).
- Walla Walla Valley (interstate to Oregon): A cluster of boutique wineries; The Rocks District on the Oregon side produces smoked pepper-style Syrah with basalt pebbles.
- Yakima Valley/Horse Heaven Hills: The main belt of quantity and quality.
- Recent situation: Ste. Michelle changed ownership to the Wyckoff family in 2025-12 after scaling back its acquisitions (see Lecture 3), and the industry is in a period of restructuring.
AT A GLANCE
01
The second largest producing state in the United States; rain shadow desert climate (annual rainfall is often less than 200mm), irrigation is necessary; high latitude and long sunshine; severe cold in winter is the main risk (general knowledge).
02
Red Mountain: The hottest and smallest famous area in the state - Condensed Cabernet Sauvignon (Quilceda Creek, etc., general knowledge).
03
Walla Walla Valley (interstate to Oregon): A cluster of boutique wineries; The Rocks District on the Oregon side produces smoked pepper-style Syrah with basalt pebbles.