Columbia Crest Winery

Columbia Crest is a Washington winery whose wines reflect Columbia Valley growing conditions. The first wines were released in 1984. The cellar couples large-scale production with small-lot techniques to maintain consistency.

The portfolio is organized into tiers: Grand Estates (broadly distributed varietal wines), H3 (Horse Heaven Hills AVA bottlings), and Reserve (limited selections).

Columbia Crest is widely known for combining approachable pricing with dependable quality.

• Value and consistency — produces large-volume wines with reliable flavor profiles across vintages.
• Distribution — broad presence in many U.S. retail and restaurant markets.
• Critical recognition — periodic high scores and list placements from major wine publications.

• Where is Columbia Crest located? In the Horse Heaven Hills AVA of the Columbia Valley near Paterson, Washington—an area along the Columbia River known for sunny, dry conditions and steady winds that suit winegrowing.

• Who owns Columbia Crest? Ste. Michelle Wine Estates.

• When was Columbia Crest founded? 1983 in Paterson, Washington; the first wines were released in 1984.

• What wines is Columbia Crest best known for? Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

• How large is Columbia Crest? Columbia Crest is one of Washington State's larger wineries by volume, producing a broad portfolio across multiple tiers.

• Has Columbia Crest won notable awards? Yes. The 2005 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon was Wine Spectator's #1 Wine of the Year in 2009.

• Are Columbia Crest wines affordable? Many bottlings are widely distributed and recognized for strong value.