Red Mountain AVA
The Red Mountain AVA is an American Viticultural Area that includes the land surrounding Red Mountain in Benton County, Washington. It is part of the Yakima Valley AVA, which in turn is part of the larger Columbia Valley AVA. Located between Benton City and the City of West Richland, the Red Mountain AVA is the smallest in the state at only 4,040 acres (1,630 ha) in area. The area has more than 2,000 acres (810 ha) under cultivation of primarily red varietals including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc and Syrah. The reputation of the wines produced in this area has brought Red Mountain AVA worldwide acclaim. The vineyards in this appellation have produced grapes for some of the most sought after wines in Washington State.
| Wine region | |
| Type | American Viticultural Area |
|---|---|
| Year established | 2001 |
| Country | United States |
| Part of | Columbia Valley AVA, Washington, Yakima Valley AVA |
| Other regions in Columbia Valley AVA, Washington, Yakima Valley AVA | Rattlesnake Hills AVA, Snipes Mountain AVA |
| Growing season | 180 days |
| Climate region | Continental |
| Precipitation (annual average) | 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) |
| Total area | 4,040 acres (1,630 ha) |
| Size of planted vineyards | 2,225 acres (900 ha) |
| Grapes produced | Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Counoise, Gewurztraminer, Lemberger, Malbec, Merlot, Mourvedre, Nebbiolo, Petit Verdot, Pinot gris, Riesling, Roussanne, Sauvignon blanc, Semillon, Syrah, Viognier |
| No. of wineries | more than 15 |