Naches Heights
Naches Heights is is a sub-appellation of the Columbia Valley that lies to the west of the city of Yakima. It is a new region, first commercially planted in 2002, which received its AVA status in 2012. It is the smallest appellation in Washington with slightly less than 40 acres under vine, split between seven different vineyards.
The region sits on a plateau, with elevations ranging between 1,200 and 2,100 feet. Cold air drains from the plateau in winter, helping to reduce the risk of frost damage. Perhaps uniquely among all American AVAs, all vineyards in Naches Heights are fully sustainable and have either biodynamic or LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology) certification. Wilridge, Naches Heights, and Harlequin are the leading producers in the region.