Forbes’ Amber Gibson recently said, “Many winemakers I spoke with find it maddening that Washington wines don’t get more respect, and it’s still an uphill battle when it comes to national distribution in key retail and restaurant outlets.”
Here are the top 10 reasons that Washington should be one of your top-of-mind wine regions when making buying decisions.
1. Walla Walla Valley was named one of five global finalists for Wine Enthusiast’s prestigious 2019 Wine Region of the Year Award (3rd time since 2012).
2. Washington state is a uniquely suited growing environment that compares to highly respected regions like Ribera del Duero and Bordeaux.
3. Its Continental Semi-Desert climate, moderate elevation, long summer days, and very large diurnal temperature swings all contribute to producing ripe grapes with complex flavors that retain their acidity.
4. Washington’s grapevines are primarily planted on their own rootstock as they have managed to avoid major issues with phylloxera, a rarity in North America.
5. Because of the low rainfall in Eastern Washington, many wineries must irrigate, giving them unparalleled control over the timing and level of hydric stress on the grapevines.
6. For the most part, Washington wines offer exceptional value when compared with wines of similar quality from Europe and even California.
7. 90% of Washington state’s wineries are small, family-owned businesses that make fewer than 5,000 cases a year.
8. Washington ranks 2nd nationally for premium wine production and has over 60,000 acres planted for vinifera grapes.
9. Over-Index on 90+ Scores from Wine Spectator:
Percentage of 90+ scores from Wine Spectator in 2019
- France: 45%
- Washington: 44%
- Italy: 37%
- California: 34%
- Spain: 26%
10. Highest value region among 2019 Wine Spectator
90+ Scores
Average cost per bottle by region among 2019 Wine Spectator 90+ rated wines:
- France: $96
- California: $76
- Italy: $69
- Spain: $68
