Walla Walla AVA
Introduction to the Walla Walla AVA
The Walla Walla American Viticultural Area (AVA) is located in southeastern Washington and northeastern Oregon. The AVA spans 2,800 square miles and includes parts of both states, but the majority of the AVA is in Washington. The area is known for producing high-quality wine, particularly red varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.
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History of the Walla Walla AVA
The first grapevines were planted in the Walla Walla Valley in the 1850s by Italian immigrants. In the early 1900s, there were over 40 wineries in the area, but Prohibition put an end to wine production in Walla Walla. It wasn't until the 1970s and 1980s that wine production resumed in the area.
The Walla Walla AVA was established in 1984, and at the time, it covered just 60 acres of land. Since then, the AVA has expanded significantly, and today, there are over 120 wineries in the Walla Walla Valley.
Climate and Terroir
The Walla Walla Valley has a unique climate that is characterized by hot, dry summers and cold winters. Much of the area receives just 10 or less inches of rainfall per year, and most of the moisture comes from snow in the winter.
The soil in the Walla Walla Valley is diverse, with a mix of loess, basalt, and silt. This soil, combined with the unique climate, creates ideal growing conditions for grapes.
Varietals
The Walla Walla Valley is known for producing high-quality red varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Sangiovese. The area is also well-suited for growing white varietals like Chardonnay, Viognier, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Grenache.
Wineries and Tasting Rooms
There are over 120 wineries in the Walla Walla Valley, and many of them have tasting rooms that are open to the public. Some of the most popular wineries in the area include:
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The Walla Walla AVA is a unique and special place that is known for producing world class wines. If you're a wine lover, a visit to the Walla Walla Valley is a must-see. With over 120 wineries to choose from, and support from NW Touring & Concierge, you're sure to find a wine that you love and and memories to reflect on for years to come.
MID-WEEK WINE TOURS
Use your PTO and take a mid-week wine tour with us! Weekdays provide a more relaxed pace and an opportunity to spend more time with winery staff. We offer special rates for Tours booked Monday through Thursday.
PRIVATE & GROUP WINE TOURS
The vineyards are calling and I must go...
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We can select and curate the wineries for you, or you tell us! We build our tours based on your preferences, and can accommodate groups of any size, just let us know!
CORPORATE EVENTS
At Northwest Touring, we handle all planning and scheduling needs for your corporate event. We can recommend and book wine tastings, tee times, restaurant reservations, custom dining and tasting experiences and much more. Transportation to and from the airport (private or commercial), and to your lodging throughout your visit is of course included.
