Columbia Wine

Columbia wine refers to any one of the wines produced from Columbia grapes and manufactured in the vineyards of Columbia Winery in the Woodinville region of Washington. Syrah Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Pinot Gris and Riesling are some of the varieties of grapes from which Columbia wines are produced. The wines are basically fruity flavored with a good balance between acidic and tannic levels. Known for its superior quality any Columbia region wine represents Washington as a premier wine producing region.

 


Historical Background of Columbia Wines
Known to have been produced from 1962, when the first winery of Columbia was established, Columbia wine was initially made from the European Vinifera grapes. Wine Spectator and Decanter Magazine titled “Dean of Washington Winemakers”, Emeritus David Lake, added grapes of new varieties like Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Pinot Gris, to those already present in the Columbia region. A Columbia region wine of today is reputed for its superior quality which is ensured by a perfect harmony between the fruit and acidic contents. Being one of the most versatile when it comes to pairing with food, Columbia wines are made to generally suit any meal very well whether for a casual  or a special occasion. Currently under the ownership of Ascentia Wine Estates, the winery was founded in 1964 under the name of Associated Vinters. Kerry Norton was hired as its Director for winemaking after David Lake.

 


Popular Columbia Vineyards
Columbia wines are produced in 400 wineries spread across 30,000 acres of land in the Washington state which happens to be the second major premium wine producing region of the United States. Popular vineyards of the region are from the Eastern Washington region:

 

  • Red Willow Vineyard– Located in the Yakima Valley at 1300 ft above sea level this vineyard is home to a number of wines like Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Syrah, and Viogner.



 

  • Otis Vineyard– Located in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA, this is home to the first Pinot Gris plantation and the oldest plantation of Cabernet Sauvignon as produced in contemporary times, in the entire state of Washington.



 

  • Wyckoff Vineyards- producer of chardonnay wines of the region, this vineyard is located in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA of the region.