Washington State Wine Region Basics

Washington State is the country’s second-largest wine-producing state, and its vintners have experimented with a multitude of grape varieties over the last few decades. While some have proven more successful than others, the Bordeaux-style wines of Washington are particularly good and have earned the state a reputation for outstanding, world-class red wines. Those made from Rhône varieties, especially Syrah, are increasingly esteemed. Among Washington’s white wines, Chardonnay justifies high praise, as do Viognier, Semillon and Riesling.

Five top bottles

• 2006 Chateau Ste. Michelle & Dr. Loosen Eroica Columbia Valley Riesling
• 2004 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Columbia Valley Chardonnay
• 2003 Covey Run Quail Series Columbia Valley Syrah
• 2005 Nelms Road Columbia Valley Merlot
• 2003 Sagelands Vineyard Four Corners Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

More F&W coverage

• Terrific Washington State Reds
  Senior editor Ray Isle tastes his way through 105 Washington State reds.
• Wine Matters: America’s Great Value Winery
  Washingon State’s Chateau Ste. Michelle produces amazing values, says executive wine editor Lettie Teague.
• A Wannabe-Insider’s Guide to Seattle’s Outsider Chefs
  A look at some of Seattle’s most exciting chefs.
• Where To Go Next: Seattle
  Lettie Teague investigates Santa Barbara’s Bien Nacido vineyard.
• 10 Best Online Wine Shops
  These e-merchants stand above the rest for ease of use and selection.
• Niche Wine Blogs
  Here, five wine blogs that have carved out smart and focused niches in the wine Web.

Other great Web resources

• StayInWashington.com
  Publisher of the Washington State Visitors’ Guide.
• Wine Connection of Washington
  Winery information, reviews and a Washington State wine club.
• Visit Yakima Valley
  Travel tips and tours for Washington’s Yakima Valley.
• Wines Northwest
  Maps and winery information for all of the Pacific Northwest.