Pinot Noir: This grape is all about character. Delicate and complex, Pinot Noir thrives in cooler climates. It showcases flavors of cherry, earthiness, and light spice. It’s a wine that can surprise you with its layers and personality. Trying some of the lesser known Pinot Noirs from Washington will show off new facets of this varietal.
Picking Pinot Noir from Washington AVAs is a trick question. Part of the Walla Walla Valley AVA is in Oregon – a state known for its’ Pinot Noirs. These grapes make wine that can go from a no-holds-barred Thanksgiving meal to the elegance of sushi.
Not grown widely in Washington, the state only harvested 1,163 tons in 2023. At about 600 bottles per ton, that is <7000 bottles in total. For the entire state. More Sangiovese and Malbec is grown and harvested in Washington than Pinot Noir. But that is what makes it special. Requiring cooler climates than eastern Washington, Columbia Valley winemakers create Pinot Noirs with great minerality – think savory, saline notes.
Washington wine statistics from the Washington State Wine Commission
About Wine Grapes
Welcome to our glossary. Here we share a bit about wine grapes that we mention on our site and in our social media. Washington has wines representing each grape. There is a lot more to learn, and we encourage you to do as much as you want. Have some fun with learning just enough to enjoy wine more.