Ancient Lakes AVA

🔍 Quick Summary

Ancient Lakes AVA, one of Washington's coolest and most distinctive wine regions, is celebrated for its crisp, mineral-driven white wines especially Riesling and Chardonnay that reflect its glacially carved terrain and high-elevation vineyards.

🔊 Pronunciation: ayn-shuhnt layks

📜 History

Established in 2012, Ancient Lakes AVA has swiftly gained recognition for its unique terroir and exceptional white wines.

  • Ice Age Origins: The region's dramatic coulees and basalt cliffs were sculpted by the Missoula Floods over 15,000 years ago.

  • Pioneering Vineyards: Cave B Estate Winery planted the first vines in 1984, marking the beginning of viticulture in the area.

  • AVA Designation: Achieved official AVA status in 2012, thanks to efforts by local vintners and soil scientists.

  • Evergreen Vineyard: Planted in 1997 by Jerry Milbrandt, it now represents about 60% of the AVA's planted acreage.

🧠 What to Know

Ancient Lakes AVA stands out for its cool climate, unique soils, and focus on white grape varieties.

  1. Cool Climate: The AVA's northerly location and higher elevations result in a cooler growing season, ideal for white varieties.

  2. Distinctive Soils: Predominantly fine sand, silt, and sandy loam, with significant caliche deposits rich in calcium carbonate.

  3. White Varietal Focus: Approximately 90% of plantings are white grapes, with Riesling and Chardonnay leading the way.

  4. Mineral-Driven Wines: The unique soils contribute to the wines' notable minerality and crisp acidity.

  5. Protected Microclimate: The Columbia River moderates temperatures, reducing frost risk and contributing to consistent ripening.

  6. Famous Vineyards:

    • Evergreen Vineyard: Known for its high-quality Riesling and Chardonnay, supplying fruit to top producers.

    • Two Gun Vineyard: Situated at 1,500 feet elevation, producing Pinot Gris with notable minerality and crispness.

📍 Where It’s Found

🇺🇸 Ancient Lakes AVA – Located in central Washington's Quincy Basin, within the larger Columbia Valley AVA.

⬆️ Elevation: 1,200–1,500 ft / 365–457 m

🌞 Cool Continental Climate: (65–85°F / 18–29°C) – Characterized by large diurnal temperature swings, preserving acidity in grapes.

🌡️ Historical Temperature Summary: 65–85°F (18–29°C) average daytime highs during growing season.

🔺 Warming Trend: Temperatures have risen ~2°F (1.1°C) since the 1980s, leading to slightly earlier harvests.

🏛 Notable Producers

  • Cave B Estate Winery – Pioneering estate known for its elegant white wines.

  • Jones of Washington – Family-owned winery producing award-winning Riesling and Chardonnay.

  • Ryan Patrick Wines – Specializes in crisp, aromatic whites that showcase the AVA's terroir.

  • White Heron Cellars – Boutique winery with a focus on expressive white varietals.

  • Beaumont Cellars – Produces a range of wines highlighting the region's unique characteristics.

🍷 Wines to Try

These wines define the region’s style and legacy:

  • Riesling – Bright acidity with notes of lime, green apple, and a mineral finish.

  • Chardonnay – Crisp and clean, often unoaked, showcasing citrus and stone fruit flavors.

  • Pinot Gris – Fresh and aromatic, with pear and floral notes.

  • Sauvignon Blanc – Zesty and vibrant, featuring grapefruit and herbaceous tones.

🗺️ To Further Explore

These zones reveal the region’s range and character:

  • Evergreen Ridge – Home to the renowned Evergreen Vineyard, producing high-quality white grapes.

  • Beezley Hills – Elevated terrain contributing to the AVA's cooler microclimate.

  • Frenchman Hills – Southern boundary with unique soil compositions influencing grape characteristics.

  • Columbia River Bench – Warmer area near the river, suitable for select red varietals.

👅 Flavor & Style

Ancient Lakes wines are celebrated for their purity, brightness, and mineral-driven profiles.

  • Color: Pale straw to light gold.

  • Aromas & Flavors:

    • Primary: Citrus fruits, green apple, pear.

    • Secondary: Floral notes, subtle herbaceousness.

    • Tertiary: Developing honeyed and nutty nuances with age.

  • Structure:

    • Body: Light to medium.

    • Tannin: Low to none.

    • Acidity: High, contributing to freshness and longevity.

    • Alcohol: Moderate (12–13.5%).

🛠 Winemaking Notes

Winemakers in Ancient Lakes AVA focus on techniques that preserve the natural acidity and express the terroir.

  • Cool Fermentation: Maintains aromatic intensity and freshness.

  • Stainless Steel Aging: Commonly used to highlight pure fruit flavors.

  • Minimal Oak Use: When used, it's subtle to avoid overshadowing varietal character.

  • Sustainable Practices: Emphasis on environmentally friendly viticulture.

🍽 Food Pairing Ideas

Pairs well with dishes that complement its bright acidity and delicate flavors.

  • Savory: Grilled seafood, chicken piccata, sushi.

  • Cheese: Goat cheese, Brie, Gruyère.

  • Unexpected: Thai green curry, ceviche, lemon tart.

📑 Regional Wine Laws

AVA Designation: Established in 2012, wines must contain at least 85% grapes from the AVA to bear its name.

  1. Sub-AVA Status: Ancient Lakes is a sub-appellation within the Columbia Valley AVA.

🔗 Related Topics to Explore

  • 🍇 Riesling – Versatile white grape known for its aromatic complexity.

  • 🗺️ Columbia Valley AVA – Encompassing AVA with diverse microclimates.

  • 🛢️ Stainless Steel Fermentation – Technique preserving purity and freshness.

  • 🌍 Missoula Floods – Cataclysmic events shaping the region's geology.

🤓 Deep Dive Topics