Walla Walla Valley 2017 Near Textbook Vintage Despite Weather Challenges

Walla Walla, WA (Dec 18, 2017) — Winter snows and freezing temperatures did not prevent the Walla Walla Valley American Viticultural Area from achieving a near textbook set of harvest metrics.

A membership survey conducted by the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance yielded responses that indicated the spring moisture combined with a long and warm summer resulted in “normal” harvest dates and average yields for most vineyards.

While winter 2016/2017 brought cold temperatures, minimal damage to grapevines was reported.  The winter and spring also brought ample moisture to grow vines.  A cooler spring gave way to warm summer months and an average fall season.  The weather allowed for grapes to hang on the vines for as long as was needed to properly ripen. Winemakers noted that October’s mild temperatures allowed extended hang time for varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.

High acids and low pH were reported by many, with one winemaker commenting “There was excellent color development and good hang time. High acids will make very age-worthy wines.”

The Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance is a non-profit wine industry membership organization whose primary mission is the marketing of the Walla Walla Valley’s American Viticultural Area (AVA). The Wine Alliance functions as the leading informational resource for consumers, media and trade interested in learning more about the Valley’s wine industry.

Ashley Riggs

Chief Operating Officer, Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance

[email protected] | (509) 526-3117 office

High resolution images available upon request.