Naches Heights AVA

🔍 Quick Summary

Naches Heights AVA is Washington’s first fully sustainable wine region, perched on a volcanic plateau west of Yakima. Its high elevation, unique andesite bedrock, and loess-rich soils yield vibrant, cool-climate wines with exceptional purity and balance.

🔊 Pronunciation: nah-chess heights

📜 History

A young AVA with deep geological roots:

  • 2002 – Phil Cline plants the first modern vines at Naches Heights Vineyard, transitioning from orchard farming.

  • 2007 – Wilridge Winery establishes its vineyard, pioneering biodynamic practices in the area.

  • 2012 – Officially recognized as Washington’s 12th AVA, encompassing 13,254 acres.

  • Notably, all vineyards here are certified organic, biodynamic, or LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology), making it the state's first fully sustainable AVA.

🧠 What to Know

Naches Heights stands apart in Washington viticulture:

  1. Volcanic Origins – Situated on a million-year-old andesite lava flow, distinct from the basalt bedrock common in other regions.

  2. Loess Soils – Composed of windblown silt and clay, these soils offer excellent drainage and water retention, ideal for vine health.

  3. High Elevation – Ranging from 1,200 to 2,100 feet, the plateau's elevation contributes to cooler temperatures and a longer growing season.

  4. Sustainability Focus – Every vineyard is committed to organic, biodynamic, or sustainable practices, emphasizing environmental stewardship.

  5. Famous vineyards – Wilridge Vineyard and Naches Heights Vineyard are notable for their pioneering sustainable practices and diverse varietal plantings.

📍 Where It’s Found

🇺🇸 Naches Heights AVA – Located in Yakima County, Washington, between the towns of Naches and Tieton, northwest of the city of Yakima.

⬆️ Elevation: 1,200–2,100 ft / 365–640 m

🌞 Climate: Cool Continental (75–85°F / 24–29°C) – Elevated terrain leads to cooler temperatures and increased precipitation compared to surrounding areas.

🌡️ Historical Temperature Summary: Average daytime highs during the growing season range from 75–85°F (24–29°C).

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

🏛 Notable Producers

  • Wilridge Winery – Seattle-based winery with estate vineyards in Naches Heights; known for biodynamic practices and diverse varietals.

  • Naches Heights Vineyard – Founded by Phil Cline; focuses on sustainable farming and a range of white and red varietals.

  • Treveri Cellars – Specializes in sparkling wines, sourcing grapes from Naches Heights and other regions.

🍷 Wines to Try

These wines showcase Naches Heights’ unique terroir:

  • Syrah – Rich and aromatic with notes of dark berries and pepper.

  • Riesling – Crisp and vibrant, featuring citrus and floral nuances.

  • Pinot Gris – Fresh and zesty with stone fruit and mineral undertones.

  • Gewürztraminer – Aromatic and spicy, offering lychee and rose petal flavors.

  • Cabernet Franc – Medium-bodied with red fruit and herbal characteristics.

🗺️ To Further Explore

While Naches Heights is a compact AVA, its vineyards offer diverse expressions:

  • Wilridge Vineyard – Known for its biodynamic practices and scenic location.

  • Naches Heights Vineyard – Pioneering vineyard with a focus on sustainability and varietal diversity.

  • Treveri Vineyard – Specializes in sparkling wine production, leveraging the AVA's cool climate.

👅 Flavor & Style

Naches Heights wines are marked by their freshness, balance, and expression of terroir:

  • Color: Pale straw to deep ruby, depending on varietal.

  • Aromas & Flavors:

    • Primary: Citrus, stone fruits, red berries, and floral notes.

    • Secondary: Mineral, spice, and subtle oak influences.

    • Tertiary: Develop with age, showing honeyed and earthy characteristics.

  • Structure:

    • Body: Light to medium.

    • Tannin: Soft to moderate.

    • Acidity: Bright and refreshing.

    • Alcohol: 12.5–14.5%.

🛠 Winemaking Notes

Winemakers in Naches Heights focus on techniques that highlight the AVA’s unique terroir:

  • Fermentation: Controlled temperatures to preserve varietal character.

  • Aging: Use of neutral oak and stainless steel to maintain freshness.

  • Blending: Crafting balanced wines that showcase complexity and harmony.

  • Sustainability: Emphasis on environmentally friendly practices and community engagement.

🍽 Food Pairing Ideas

Pairs well with dishes that complement its vibrant acidity and aromatic profile:

  • Savory: Grilled salmon, roasted chicken, and mushroom risotto.

  • Cheese: Goat cheese, Brie, and aged Gouda.

  • Unexpected: Spicy Thai cuisine, sushi, and apple tarts.

📑 Regional Wine Laws

AVA Designation: Established in 2012, Naches Heights AVA is a sub-appellation of the Columbia Valley AVA.

  1. Labeling Requirements: Wines must contain at least 85% grapes from the Naches Heights AVA to use the designation.

  2. Sustainability Commitment: Recognized as Washington's first fully sustainable AVA, with all vineyards certified organic, biodynamic, or LIVE.

🔗 Related Topics to Explore

🍇 Syrah – Expressive red grape thriving in cool climates.

🍷 Riesling – Aromatic white grape known for its versatility.

🛢 Sustainable Viticulture – Practices promoting environmental stewardship in winemaking.

🌄 Columbia Valley AVA – Encompassing AVA with diverse sub-regions.

🌬 Loess Soils – Windblown soils contributing to vine health and wine character.

🧭 Yakima Valley AVA – Neighboring AVA with a rich viticultural history.

🤓 Deep Dive Topics