What is H3 wine?

Answered by Dustin Gorski

H3 is a unique and captivating creation that was introduced in 2008 by Columbia Crest Winery. It was named after the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, which is located in the state of Washington. The H3 wines were developed as a sister project to Columbia Crest, with the aim of showcasing the distinct characteristics of this specific AVA.

The Horse Heaven Hills AVA is known for its exceptional grape-growing conditions, including its warm climate, well-drained soils, and cool breezes that flow from the nearby Columbia River. These factors contribute to the development of grapes with intense flavors and balanced acidity, which are essential for producing high-quality wines.

H3 wines are made exclusively from grapes grown in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. This focus on a single AVA allows the winemakers to truly capture the essence of the region and showcase its unique terroir. By sourcing grapes solely from this area, H3 wines are able to reflect the specific characteristics and nuances that make the Horse Heaven Hills AVA so special.

The H3 wine portfolio includes a range of varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Each varietal is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring that the true expression of the grape and the AVA shines through in every bottle.

One of the standout qualities of H3 wines is their bold and expressive flavors. The Cabernet Sauvignon, for example, exhibits rich dark fruit flavors, such as blackberry and black cherry, along with notes of chocolate and spice. This intensity of flavor is a direct result of the unique growing conditions in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA.

Another notable aspect of H3 wines is their balanced acidity. Despite the warm climate of the region, the cool breezes from the Columbia River help to preserve the natural acidity of the grapes, resulting in wines that are refreshing and well-structured. This balance between fruitiness and acidity is a hallmark of H3 wines and adds to their overall appeal.

Personally, I have had the pleasure of tasting several H3 wines and have been consistently impressed by their quality and craftsmanship. The attention to detail in the winemaking process is evident in every sip, with each wine showcasing the distinctiveness of the Horse Heaven Hills AVA.

H3 wines are a testament to the unique terroir of the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. By focusing solely on grapes from this region, H3 wines are able to capture the essence of the AVA and offer consumers a truly exceptional wine experience. Whether it's the bold flavors or the balanced acidity, H3 wines are a true expression of the Horse Heaven Hills AVA and are sure to delight any wine enthusiast.