Ste. Michelle Wine Estates owns more than 3,500 acres of prime vineyards in Washington State's Columbia Valley. This is prime real estate for world-class Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and many of the company's best come from vines that have seen as many as 30 vintages.

The Columbia Valley owes its success to the state's unique geography. While Seattle is known for its rain, the Columbia Valley is protected from Seattle's marine weather by the Cascade Mountains. This majestic mountain range divides the state in half, and the geography and weather patterns of the two regions are as different as night and day.

Rain averages only 6 to 8 inches annually in the Columbia Valley. And when the rain does fall, it's usually in the winter. This means the Columbia Valley is less likely than many other prime growing regions to experience spring rain that can damage delicate buds. It also means vineyard managers have more control over vine vigor in the summer. By restricting irrigation early in the season, the vine puts more energy into its grapes which translates into more flavor come harvest.

Summer daylight hours are long, thanks to the Columbia Valley's northerly latitude. Daytime temperatures hover in the 80s, perfect for ripening grapes at an even pace. Summer evenings are cool, allowing the grapes to retain their natural acidity.

Although it is the macro environment that distinguishes the appellation, one of the most notable aspects of the Columbia Valley is the diversity of its individual meso-climates. No better examples of the distinct differences created by terroir are to be found that in the wines of Columbia Crest's Estate Vineyards or Chateau Ste. Michelle's Cold Creek or Canoe Ridge Estate single vineyard wines.

In addition to the wines of Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Crest, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Columbia Valley wines include Col Solare, Domaine Ste. Michelle, Northstar, Snoqualmie and Spring Valley Vineyard.

For a map of the Columbia Valley and our vineyards, click here.
For a printable vineyard factsheet, click here.