The Lake Chelan appellation is a sub-region of the Columbia Valley, located in north-central Washington, about 112 miles east-northeast of the city of Seattle. It received official recognition in 2009. While the first plantings in the region date to 1891, the first modern vineyards were planted in 1998. Today, there are a bit less than 300 acres under vine.

The region is distinguished by its proximity to Lake Chelan. This 55-mile long glacial lake is nearly 1,500 feet deep, and the cold waters produce a lake effect that provides cooler summer days and warmer summer nights than surrounding regions. Additionally, the lake limits the danger of frost damage in winter, a not-insignificant problem in the Columbia Valley. The most widely planted grapes are Pinot Noir and Riesling, followed by Syrah, but there are over 20 varietals in the region as befits a still-youthful and experimental industry. (Wine/Appellations)