Ancient Lakes is officially state’s newest AVA

QUINCY, Wash. – Wine made from grapes grown in the Quincy area now has a name to call its own. Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley will officially become Washington’s 13th American Viticultural Area this week. Documents approving a petition were published in the Federal Register on Thursday.

The AVA is a big deal to the six major grape growers in the Quincy area. It can bring added interest in the region’s unique qualities. The appellation is significant to connoisseurs of fine wine and also tourists. The Lake Chelan area with its 15 wineries was approved in 2009.

“The primary reason I started the petition is to get us on the map,” said Cameron Fries, owner of White Heron Winery, located above Crescent Bar west of Quincy. “This area is not known as wine country. I want people to come here for the wine.”

Fries said the region’s sandy and mineral soils, cool climate and Columbia River-propelled air flow offer a unique character to the grapes that results in wines that are more crisp and acidic than wines made from grapes grown in other areas. Local vineyards have developed a reputation for excellent riesling, chardonnay and pinot gris white wines. Fries believes the area will also become known for its tannic, long-lasting reds, particularly syrah and malbec.

“The caliche soils really gives our white wines that minerality we like,” said Allan Williams, marketing director for Jones of Washington wines. Wines from the area have been winning awards in state and national competitions. The AVA can only help local wineries create a sense of place for people who try wines with an Ancient Lakes label, he said.