Columbia Crest

Between the mighty Columbia River in the south and the barren Horse Heaven Hills in the north lies the Columbia Crest Winery, surrounded by 2,500 hectares of vineyards.

Untamed nature in bottles - Columbia Crest Winery

In summer, the sun shines for 17 hours with lush temperatures up to 40° C, while the winters take on arctic traits. Rain, on the other hand, is scarcely present. The largest wine producer in Washington State thrives on this steppe-like terroir. It holds the strengths of the Single Vineyards wines, which are regarded as expressive flagship wines from Washington State.

Bordeaux style in the Wild West - Columbia Crest wine

Columbia Crest wines are usually found at the top end of lists compiled by trade magazines and experts. This in no way stops the Columbia Crest winery on its path to the highest wine quality. Thanks to excellent vineyards and manual work, the best grapes develop. The perfect starting point for the vinification of the Two Vines line and the Grand Estates wines, which enjoy high demand both nationally and internationally. Whether harmonious red wine cuvée or straightforward white wines - Columbia Crest offers diversity from the top sites of the Columbia Valley to the Walla Walla Valley. 

Grape variety portfolio of the premium winery

Since 1983, this still relatively young winery from Paterson has been operating as part of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, under which the Chateau Ste. Michelle winery also produces top wines. But Columbia Crest has made the very best use of this short time and, alongside other industry heavyweights, impressed Wine Spectator, which in 2009 awarded the Wine of the Year Producer title to the premium winery. Mainly responsible are the unwavering principles of creating wines that are balanced and rich in aromas and flavor and exceed expectations. Leading the way are the distinctive Single Vineyards and the varietal strengths of the cultivated grape varieties:

• Merlot
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Shiraz
• Grenache
• Malbec
• Cabernet Franc
• Chardonnay
• Pinot Gris
• Sauvignon blanc

The terroir in the south of Washington

The southeast of Washington State is shaped by the Columbia River and the steppe region of the Horse Heaven Hills. The sun shines here for over 17 hours a day, and temperatures are very warm. The low rainfall forces the vines to protect themselves so as not to perish. Therefore, the vines produce fewer leaves but thick-skinned berries. This results in pronounced tannins and aromas - a plus for this barren region. Through drip irrigation, enough moisture still reaches the plants. This ensures a precise amount of water is supplied at the right time. Consistent quality year after year is guaranteed, while the winemaker’s craft provides the crowning touch. 

You can buy experience - with Columbia Crest wine

Head winemaker and cellar master Juan Muñoz-Oca lets his experience flow into every drop in the cellar. For him, making wine is a new experience every time. You get to know the land, the climate, the soil. Each individual vineyard presents itself with unique finesse, while the differences between vintages unite past and future. The Columbia Crest wines are a journey through the region and the character of a wild patch of land. A place from which exceptional wines originate, scoring with varietal strengths and terroir.