Beyond The Pale

Yakima Valley

Washington's Yakima Valley enjoys 300 days of sunshine per year, thanks to the shelter provided by the Cascade Mountains. And although it is dry here, it has the coolest climate in the Columbia Valley. With innovative irrigation and canopy techniques in the vineyards, Yakima Valley is home to nearly a third of Washington's wine production. Bright sunlight and crisp temperatures result in well-balanced wines with complex flavors and mouthwatering acidity. Fresh, creamy Chardonnay and surprisingly floral Rieslings are the main white wines here. There are also some impressively elegant red Bordeaux-style blends and peppery Syrah with a backbone of rich, dark fruit.