Red Mountain is the smallest appellation in Washington State at only 4,040 acres in total area. Of this land, a shade over 700 acres are planted on southwest facing slopes. Red Mountain is a sub-region of the Yakima Valley, and it is neither red, nor is it a mountain, but rather a rolling set of hills with elevations between 500 and 1,500 feet. The region was first planted in the 1970s by John Williams of Kiona Vineyards and Jim Holmes, originally from Kiona and then Ciel du Cheval Vineyards.

This is typically Washington's warmest and sunniest wine-region and as such has a formidable reputation for red wines. Daytime highs in the growing season average 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while nighttime temperatures typically plummet 40 degrees or more. This diurnal range creates an extended growing season and helps to preserve the grape's natural acidity.

The result is Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah that tends to be concentrated, tannic, and firmly structured. Classic examples are best with bottle age and have shown the capacity to cellar for 20 years or more. Many wineries are located in the region, with Hedges, Kiona, and Col Solare among the most prominent. Red Mountain grapes are also sourced by wineries around the state, with the Ciel du Cheval, Klipsun, Kiona, and Tapteil Vineyards frequently supplying highly rated, cult favorites. (Wine/Appellations)