Ancient Lakes

Columbia Valley

Named for the ancient lakes carved by the Missoula Floods, this AVA in central Washington features thin soils over basalt bedrock. The extreme continental climate and low rainfall produce intensely flavored Riesling and crisp whites.

The wines of Ancient Lakes are made primarily from Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and other Columbia Valley varieties.

Vineyard Map

Climate

The AVA experiences an extreme continental climate with intense diurnal temperature swings exceeding 40°F and receives only 6-8 inches of annual rainfall. Protected by the Cascade Mountains rain shadow, it is significantly drier and more temperature-extreme than surrounding Columbia Valley appellations.

Terroir

BasaltSandSilt loam

The Ancient Lakes AVA sits atop Columbia River Basalt bedrock formed by massive flood basalt flows during the Miocene epoch. Overlying soils are exceptionally thin, often less than 3 feet deep, consisting of wind-blown loess and alluvial deposits left by the catastrophic Missoula Floods. The shallow soil profile over impermeable basalt creates excellent drainage while forcing vine roots to penetrate fractures in the underlying bedrock.

Typical Aromas

flintwet stonewhite peppercitrus zestdried herbsmineral dust

Explore the aroma wheel

Grapes of Columbia Valley

Syrah

blackberryblack cherryblack pepperolive

Bold and savory, with blackberry, smoke, and bacon fat. The Rocks District produces some of America's most distinctive Syrah.

Cabernet Sauvignon

blackcurrantgreen bell peppermintcedar

Washington's biggest red. Long sunny days on basalt and loess give dark cherry, cassis, sage, and smoke, with Red Mountain producing the most tannic, structured wines.

Merlot

plumblackberrystrawberrybay leaf

Washington's Merlot rivals Napa's best: plush, with plum, chocolate, and a velvety texture.

Riesling

Body

Sweetness

Acidity

green applelimelemonwhite peach

From bone-dry to lusciously sweet, with racy acidity and stone fruit. Washington is America's largest Riesling producer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grapes grow in Ancient Lakes?▼

The main grapes in Ancient Lakes (Columbia Valley) include Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling.

What soils are found in Ancient Lakes?▼

Ancient Lakes sits on basalt, sand, silt loam soils, which contribute to the distinctive character of its wines.

Map data: TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) · Imagery: Sentinel-2 cloudless by EOX IT Services GmbH (CC BY 4.0)