Yakima Valley AVA

Yakima Valley, in south-central Washington State, was the first designated American Viticultural Area in the Pacific Northwest (1983). The valley's arid high-desert climate, volcanic basalt soils, and dramatic diurnal temperature swings produce wines of exceptional concentration and natural acidity, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Riesling. Yakima Valley contains several of Washington's most important sub-AVAs including Red Mountain and Horse Heaven Hills.