Lake Chelan

Located in the north-central part of the state around Lake Chelan
A sub-appellation of the greater Columbia Valley AVA
The climate is influenced by the lake itself which creates a “lake effect” that moderates temperatures throughout the growing season
The lake effect also protects against frost damage in winter by re-radiating heat absorbed during the summer in the later months of fall and winter
This extends the “hang time” of the fruit on the vine which allows sugars and acids in the grape to stay in balance as complexity continues to build in the wine
The soil surrounding it has distinctive properties such as coarse, sandy sediment with notable amounts of quartz and mica, and these result in grapes with discernable textures, minerals, and nutrients
The leading varieties being produced in the new AVA include Syrah, Merlot, Malbec, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir