Rattlesnake Hills
Columbia Valley
South-facing slopes in the western Yakima Valley, protected from Arctic air by the Rattlesnake Hills ridge. The warm, sheltered conditions and well-drained soils produce ripe, concentrated reds.
The wines of Rattlesnake Hills are made primarily from Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and other Columbia Valley varieties.
Vineyard Map
Climate
The Rattlesnake Hills ridge creates a rain shadow effect and blocks cold Arctic air masses from the north, resulting in warmer temperatures and extended growing seasons compared to the broader Yakima Valley floor. This protection allows for consistent ripening of heat-loving varieties while maintaining good diurnal temperature variation.
Terroir
The Rattlesnake Hills AVA sits atop Columbia River Basalt Group formations from ancient lava flows, overlaid with wind-deposited loess soils and alluvial sediments. This bedrock provides excellent drainage while the loess and silt layers retain sufficient moisture for vine roots, creating ideal conditions for deep root penetration through the well-structured soil profile.
What it tastes like
Body
Big
Acidity
Fresh
Tannin
Grippy
Oak
Some oak
Ripeness
Rich
Concentration
Medium
Big and fresh, with grippy tannin, some oak and rich fruit; red fruit, black fruit and a savoury side.
red fruit · black fruit · savoury · spicy · herbal
Cork's estimate.
Similar styles
Lands in the same glass.
Grapes of Columbia Valley
Frequently Asked Questions
What grapes grow in Rattlesnake Hills?▼
What soils are found in Rattlesnake Hills?▼
Map data: TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) · Imagery: Sentinel-2 cloudless by EOX IT Services GmbH (CC BY 4.0)