The Inspired Intermedia digital book collection
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223 walla walla valley Presented by The Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance Located in a beautiful valley amid the vast sagebrush desert, the Walla Walla Valley boasts a heritage of exceptional agriculture. For over a century, the lush region, whose name means "many waters," has been a premier source of delicious produce, including exquisite wine grapes. On February 2, 1984, the region officially gained recognition for its grapes, with the establishment of the Walla Walla Valley America Viticultural Area (AVA). It is the state's second oldest AVA, after Yakima Valley. In just over three decades, the region has emerged as one of the must-see wine destinations in the world for both its palate-captivating wines and the people who make it special. Camaraderie and forward-thinking are ingrained in the Walla Walla Valley wine industry. Winemakers constantly support one another, whether the wine is made out of garages or from one of the landmark wineries that has been there from the beginning. At latitude 46˚N, Longitude 118.5˚W, the AVA shares a latitude with French wine country— the 46˚N point lies midway between Bordeaux and Burgundy. That similarity is reflected in the rich red wine grapes that grow so prolifically in the region, namely Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc. Over 3,000 acres of planted vineyards span the AVA from southeastern Washington to northeastern Oregon. Elevations soar from 400 feet to 2,000 feet above sea level, and annual rainfall figures triple across the appellation, from seven inches in the western section to 22 inches per year in the foothills of the Blue Mountains to the east. At the heart of the valley is historic downtown Walla Walla. Its diverse art scene and exceptional outdoor experiences complement its popular restaurants, boutique shops, neighborhood cafés, and of course, local tasting rooms. When you arrive, you'll immediately feel at home. Don't be surprised if a local winemaker, dressed in jeans and boots, strikes up a conversation at a local café or a stranger greets you with a hello in this charming region.