Horse Heaven AVA

🔍 Quick Summary

Horse Heaven Hills AVA is one of Washington State's premier wine regions, renowned for producing bold, structured red wines especially Cabernet Sauvignon thanks to its warm, windy climate and diverse soils.

🔊 Pronunciation: horse heh-vin hills

📜 History

Established in 2005, Horse Heaven Hills has a rich viticultural legacy:

  • 1972 – First vinifera plantings at what is now Champoux Vineyard.

  • 2005 – Designated as an official AVA, recognizing its unique terroir.

  • Named by pioneer James Kinney, who remarked, “Surely this is horse heaven!” upon seeing the area's lush grasslands.

  • Home to over a quarter of Washington’s vineyard acreage, making it a significant contributor to the state's wine production.

🧠 What to Know

Horse Heaven Hills stands out for its distinctive geography and climate:

  1. Wind-Swept Slopes – Consistent winds from the Columbia Gorge reduce disease pressure and thicken grape skins, enhancing tannin structure.

  2. Diverse Soils – A mix of wind-blown loess, Missoula Flood sediments, and basalt rubble provides excellent drainage and contributes to complex flavor profiles.

  3. Elevation Range – Vineyards span from 200 to 1,800 feet, offering varied microclimates suitable for multiple grape varieties.

  4. Significant Production – Produces about 25% of Washington's wine grapes, with a focus on red varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

  5. Famous vineyards – Champoux Vineyard is renowned for its old-vine Cabernet Sauvignon, contributing to some of Washington's most acclaimed wines.

📍 Where It’s Found

🇺🇸 Horse Heaven Hills AVA – Located in south-central Washington, bordered by the Yakima Valley AVA to the north and the Columbia River to the south.

⬆️ Elevation: 200–1,800 ft / 61–549 m

🌞 Climate: Arid to semi-arid continental (75–95°F / 24–35°C) – Warm, dry conditions with significant diurnal temperature shifts.

🌡️ Historical Temperature Summary: Daytime highs average 75–95°F (24–35°C) during the growing season.

🔺 Warming Trend: Temperatures have risen ~3°F (1.2°C) since the 1980s, leading to riper fruit and earlier harvests.

🏛 Notable Producers

  • Quilceda Creek – Snohomish-based winery sourcing from Horse Heaven Hills; known for 100-point Cabernet Sauvignons.

  • Chateau Ste. Michelle – Operates Canoe Ridge Estate; one of Washington's largest and most influential wineries.

  • Columbia Crest – Produces a range of wines highlighting the AVA's diverse terroir.

  • Alexandria Nicole Cellars – Estate-grown wines from Destiny Ridge Vineyard; known for innovative varietals.

  • McKinley Springs – Family-owned estate with a focus on sustainable practices and diverse grape varieties.

🍷 Wines to Try

These wines define Horse Heaven Hills’ style and legacy:

  • Cabernet Sauvignon – Full-bodied with dark fruit, firm tannins, and aging potential.

  • Merlot – Smooth and plush, offering ripe plum and cherry notes.

  • Syrah – Rich and spicy, with blackberry and pepper characteristics.

  • Chardonnay – Crisp and balanced, featuring apple, citrus, and subtle oak.

🗺️ To Further Explore

These zones reveal the region’s range and character:

  • Champoux Vineyard – Historic site with some of Washington's oldest Cabernet vines.

  • Canoe Ridge – South-facing slopes producing elegant, age-worthy wines.

  • Destiny Ridge – Home to Alexandria Nicole Cellars; known for diverse varietals and innovative practices.

  • Alder Ridge – Elevated vineyards offering panoramic views and complex wines.

👅 Flavor & Style

Horse Heaven Hills wines are characterized by their balance of power and elegance:

  • Color: Deep ruby for reds; pale gold for whites

  • Aromas & Flavors:

    • Primary: Blackcurrant, plum, blackberry, apple, citrus

    • Secondary: Vanilla, toast, spice

    • Tertiary: Earth, leather, dried fruit (with age)

  • Structure:

    • Body: Medium to full

    • Tannin: Moderate to firm

    • Acidity: Bright

    • Alcohol: 13.5–14.5%

🛠 Winemaking Notes

Producers in Horse Heaven Hills focus on techniques that highlight the AVA’s unique terroir:

  • Fermentation: Controlled temperatures to preserve fruit character

  • Aging: Use of French and American oak barrels for complexity

  • Blending: Combining varieties to enhance balance and structure

  • Sustainability: Emphasis on sustainable farming practices

🍽 Food Pairing Ideas

Pairs well with dishes that complement its structure and flavor profile:

  • Savory: Grilled lamb, roast duck, mushroom risotto

  • Cheese: Aged cheddar, Gruyère, Camembert

  • Unexpected: Spicy barbecue, mole poblano, rosemary shortbread

📑 Regional Wine Laws

AVA Designation: Established in 2005, Horse Heaven Hills is a sub-AVA of the larger Columbia Valley AVA.

  • Labeling: Wines must contain at least 85% grapes from Horse Heaven Hills to use the AVA designation.

  • Recognition: Acknowledged for its distinct topography, climate, and soil composition.

🔗 Related Topics to Explore

🍇 Cabernet Sauvignon – King of reds in Horse Heaven Hills

🍷 Merlot – Soft, plummy counterpoint to Cab

🛢 Oak Aging – Adds structure and spice

🌄 Red Mountain AVA – Neighboring powerhouse for bold reds

🌬 Diurnal Shift – Cool nights preserve acidity

🧭 Yakima Valley AVA – Parent AVA with diverse terroirs

🤓 Deep Dive Topics