Chateau Ste. Michelle’s vineyards are all located in Washington state’s renowned Columbia Valley.
The Columbia Valley American Viticulture Area (AVA) is a region separated from Seattle’s rainy, marine climate by the Cascade Mountains. The mountains shield the rain, limiting annual rainfall to 6-8 inches, allowing our vineyard managers to control vine vigor through irrigation. During the summer, daytime temperatures hover in the mid-80’s under sunny skies; cool nighttime temperatures in the fall protect the grapes’ natural acidity and provide perfect conditions for ripening. The resulting grapes develop intense aromas and flavors and create the distinctive sensibilities of Washington state wines.
