Washington State

One of the key reasons Washington has seen rapid growth of the wine industry is its geographical location. The state is located on roughly the same latitude (46° N) as some of the top French wine-growing regions of Burgundy and Bordeaux. The dry climate of inner eastern Washington, combined with the long daylight hours at this northern latitude, creates the ideal conditions for growing grapes. Irrigation techniques learned from the French and California growers have enabled the Washington farmers to grow grapes easily, giving rise to wines with a range of fruity flavors, mild acidity, and pleasant aroma. Much of the grape growing is done in eastern Washington. On the eastern side of the Cascades, the local government endorsed the wine regions, and farmers were provided with much-needed financial assistance. After California, Washington wine regions produce more wine grapes than all other states in the nation.