Exploring Ancient Lakes AVA
The Ancient Lakes AVA is located in the Columbia Basin, encompassing the towns of George and Quincy. As Washington’s 13th AVA, it was established in 2012. It includes around 2,000 acres of vineyards and grows over 20 different grape varieties. Ancient Lakes derives its name from the 35 lakes that were formed from the aftermath of the Missoula Floods. While a variety of red wine grapes are grown there, it is one of the cooler grape growing regions in Washington. Its location and mineral laden soils impart characteristics that are ideally suited for growing white varieties such as Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. According to Wine Press Northwest “wines from this region are among the most distinctive in the Northwest.”