Walla Walla Valley AVA

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Walla Walla Valley AVA is an American Viticultural Area (AVA) located within the larger Columbia Valley AVA in the states of Washington and Oregon, United States. Established on February 6, 1984, the Walla Walla Valley AVA is recognized for its unique terroir and the high-quality wines produced, particularly from the Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot grape varieties.

Geography and Climate

The Walla Walla Valley AVA spans approximately 320,000 acres, with a small portion extending into northeastern Oregon. The AVA is defined by the Blue Mountains to the southeast, the Palouse hills to the north, and the Columbia River to the west, creating a unique microclimate beneficial for viticulture. The area is characterized by its varied topography, which includes flatlands, rolling hills, and steep slopes, providing diverse microclimates within the AVA.

The climate of the Walla Walla Valley AVA is continental, marked by cold winters and long, warm summers. The region benefits from a significant diurnal temperature variation, which is crucial for the development of acidity and complexity in grapes. Precipitation is limited, averaging around 12-20 inches annually, making irrigation necessary in some vineyards.

Soil

The soils in the Walla Walla Valley AVA are varied, with areas of loess, volcanic ash, and alluvial deposits. The diversity of soils, along with the climate, contributes to the distinct terroir of the region. The most notable soil type is the loess-derived, wind-blown silt found in the higher elevation vineyards, which provides excellent drainage and contributes to the concentration and complexity of the wines produced.

Viticulture and Winemaking

Viticulture in the Walla Walla Valley AVA dates back to the 1850s, but the modern wine industry began to develop in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Today, the AVA is home to over 100 wineries and approximately 2,800 acres of vineyards. The region is known for its artisanal approach to winemaking, with many wineries focusing on small production, high-quality wines.

The Walla Walla Valley AVA is renowned for its red wines, with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot being the predominant varieties. The wines from this region are noted for their depth, complexity, and aging potential. In recent years, there has also been an increase in the planting of white wine grape varieties, such as Chardonnay and Viognier, which are gaining recognition for their quality.

Wine Tourism

Wine tourism is a significant aspect of the Walla Walla Valley AVA, with the region attracting visitors from around the world. The area offers a range of wine-related activities, including wine tastings, vineyard tours, and wine festivals. The city of Walla Walla, located within the AVA, serves as the hub for wine tourism, offering numerous tasting rooms, restaurants, and accommodations.

Regulation and Designation

As an American Viticultural Area, the Walla Walla Valley AVA is subject to specific regulations regarding viticulture and winemaking practices. To be labeled as Walla Walla Valley AVA wine, at least 85% of the grapes used must be grown within the designated area. This regulation ensures the integrity and authenticity of the wines produced in the region.