Columbia Hills AVA approved as Washington wine region

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has officially approved the Columbia Hills American Viticultural Area (AVA) in Washington State. Located in Klickitat County, this new designation marks Washington’s 22nd AVA and is situated entirely within the larger Columbia Valley region.

The area is defined by a 35-mile-long ridgeline north of the Columbia River, positioned between the Columbia Gorge and The Burn of Columbia Valley. Key characteristics of the region include its southern-facing slopes, which provide optimal sun exposure, and its proximity to the river, with 80% of the land located within one mile of the shore. This closeness to the water contributes to a unique micro-climate that is slightly warmer than surrounding areas.

Geologically, the region features stepped terraces and gravel bars created by the Missoula Floods. The soil consists of well-drained, sandy layers derived from loess and decomposed basalt sitting atop flood-eroded bedrock. The petition for the AVA was submitted by Dr. Kevin R. Pogue of Whitman College on behalf of Cascade Cliffs Vineyard and Winery.