Washington State announces first new AVA in five years

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Washington winegrowers celebrate Beverly’s official designation as the state’s 21st viticultural area.

“This is a huge win for Washington winegrowers and the industry as a as a whole,” she said. “It’s a testament to the quality and diversity of Washington wines.”

The Establishment of Beverly as a Viticultural Area

In 2022, the U.S. Treasury Department’s Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) officially designated Beverly as Washington’s 21st official viticultural area. This designation is a significant milestone for the region, marking its seventh new appellation in just five years.

Key Factors Leading to the Designation

Several factors contributed to Beverly’s designation as a viticultural area. These include:

  • High-quality grape production: Beverly’s unique combination of climate, soil, and geography creates an ideal environment for growing a wide range of grape varieties. Diverse wine styles: The region’s diverse terroir and microclimates allow for the production of a wide range of wine styles, from crisp whites to rich reds. Growing demand for Washington wines: The increasing popularity of Washington wines has created a strong demand for high-quality grapes and wine production in the region. ## The Impact of the Designation*
  • The Impact of the Designation

    The designation of Beverly as a viticultural area has significant implications for the region’s wine industry.

    The region is known for its dry climate, with an average annual rainfall of 12 inches (30 cm). The soils are primarily composed of clay, silt, and sand, with a high concentration of iron oxide, which gives the region’s wines a distinctive red color.

    The Climate and Soils of Beverly

    The climate in Beverly is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The region experiences a Mediterranean climate, with very little rainfall throughout the year. The average annual rainfall is just 12 inches (30 cm), making it one of the driest AVAs in the country. This dry climate is ideal for growing certain types of grapes, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, which thrive in the region’s hot and dry conditions. Key characteristics of the climate:

  • Hot summers
  • Mild winters
  • Very little rainfall throughout the year
  • Mediterranean climate
  • The Wines of Beverly

    The wines of Beverly are known for their distinctive red color, which is due to the high concentration of iron oxide in the soils.

    Geography and Climate

    Beverly is situated in the southeastern part of the Columbia Valley, nestled between the Royal Slope to the north and the Wahluke Slope to the south. The area is characterized by a unique combination of geography and climate, which has a profound impact on the local ecosystem and economy. The terrain is generally flat, with some gentle slopes and shallow valleys.

    The region’s cool and wet climate is ideal for growing red wine grapes, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir. The cool temperatures and high humidity in the region help to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of these grape varieties.

    The Perfect Climate for Red Wine

    Beverly is renowned for its ideal climate for growing red wine grapes. The region’s unique combination of cool temperatures and high humidity creates an environment that is perfectly suited for cultivating these delicate grape varieties. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Beverly’s suitability for red wine production and what makes it an attractive destination for wine enthusiasts.

    The Benefits of a Cool and Wet Climate

    A cool and wet climate is essential for growing red wine grapes. The cool temperatures help to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the grapes, resulting in a more complex and nuanced wine.

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