Thursday Virtual Happy Hour: Wines From Washington State
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One of the United States' powerhouse regions, boasting diversity in quality, production and terroirs, Washington State is second only to California.
Almost all wine production occurs in Washington's hot, desert-like eastern part, although there is some grape growing and one AVA (Puget Sound) in the cooler, wetter west. The white wine grapes Chardonnay and Riesling, and the red wine grapes Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are the main varieties grown in Washington, but the region produces quality wines from nearly 70 different grape varieties. Around 58 percent of the fruit crush is of red grapes.
The Cascade mountain range defines the geography of the region by acting as a barrier between the two parts. The mountains create a rain shadow, effectively blocking most precipitation. This means that the Columbia River Basin in the east only receives about eight inches (200mm) of rain per year, resulting in a continental climate.
We have a choice of videos to watch including:
- https://youtu.be/mAJM8fFdsdM?si=JZAFSZlPRs5W-EvV - Guildsomm International (10:51)
- https://youtu.be/FwiQQcbuyMU?si=2Jhgcw0w4g9_mIoQ - Learn About WALLA WALLA WASHINGTON WINE - V is for Vino (42:48)
- https://youtu.be/9cMnUPlmW9E?si=2r7jU1Z1UxZ0TGOE - Washington Wine: The Time is Now - Karen MacNeil (2:19)
So, pick up a bottle and watch a couple of videos. Let us know what you’re drinking and eating, and, if possible, the region from which your wine comes. Do you have any comments (positive or negative) about the videos? And, as always, tell us what’s going on in your life - what's happening with you, how you're feeling about things, updates, successes, challenges - as much or as little as you’re willing to disclose. We are in this together. And - thank goodness - we have wine!
Cheers!!