Charles Smith wines are made in various vineyards located throughout Columbia Valley, which is a prominent wine region in Washington state. These vineyards are spread across different sub appellations within Columbia Valley, including Wahluke Slope, Walla Walla Valley, Snipes Mountain, and Yakima Valley. Each of these sub appellations brings its own unique characteristics and terroir to the wines produced.
I have had the pleasure of visiting some of these vineyards in Columbia Valley, and I must say that the diversity of the terroir is truly impressive. The Wahluke Slope sub appellation, for example, is known for its warm climate and sandy soils, which contribute to the rich and concentrated flavors found in the wines. On the other hand, the Walla Walla Valley sub appellation has a cooler climate and volcanic soils, resulting in wines that are often more elegant and structured.
Snipes Mountain, another sub appellation where Charles Smith vineyards are located, is situated on a small mountain in the Yakima Valley. The vineyards here benefit from the higher elevation, which allows for cooler temperatures and longer growing seasons. This, in turn, leads to wines with vibrant acidity and intense fruit flavors.
Yakima Valley itself is one of the oldest and most diverse wine regions in Washington. The vineyards here are planted on a variety of soils, including gravel, silt, and loam, which contribute to the complexity and depth of the wines. The region is also influenced by the Yakima River, which provides irrigation and helps create a unique microclimate.
It is worth noting that Charles Smith is one of the largest wine producers in Washington, with an annual production of up to 650,000 cases. This scale allows them to have vineyards in multiple sub appellations, ensuring a wide range of flavors and styles in their wines.
The vineyards where Charles Smith wines are made are spread across various sub appellations within Columbia Valley, each offering its own distinctive characteristics. This diversity in terroir allows for the production of high-quality wines that showcase the unique flavors and nuances of the region.