Base Map via the TTB AVA Explorer Map
On August 17, 2026, the TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) of the United States approved the Columbia Hills American Viticultural Area (AVA). The new AVA—located in Washington State’s Klickitat County and just to the west of the previously established Burn of Columbia Valley AVA—lies entirely within the previously established Columbia Valley AVA. Columbia Hills State Park and Horsethief Lake (a reservoir made by The Dalles Dam) are located nearby.
According to the original petition—submitted in 2024 by Dr. Kevin R. Pogue on behalf of the owner of Cascade Cliffs Vineyard and Winery—the defining characteristics of the Columbia Hills AVA include the area’s topography, climate, and soil. These features are discussed below.
Topography: The Columbia Hills AVA is located to the north of the Columbia River, entirely atop one 35-mile-long ridgeline of the Columbia Hills. These hillsides feature gently-sloping, south-facing gravel bars and terraces, making the region unique when compared to the steep gradients seen in other, nearby areas along the Columbia River. The hills within the new AVA have a maximum elevation of 2,667 feet (813 m), with the vineyards sitting between 74 feet (22 m) and 1,050 feet (320 m) above sea level. Fun fact: 80% of the land within the Columbia Hills AVA is located within one mile of the river’s shore.
Base Map via the TTB AVA Explorer Map
Climate: The area within the Columbia Hills AVA is slightly warmer than much of the surrounding areas. This is due to the thermal effect of the river as well as the ability of the coarse-grained soils to retain heat. The difference in temperature is especially felt in the morning, as the soil tends to heat rapidly after sunrise.
Soil: As noted in the AVA petition, the topsoil found within the Columbia Hills AVA is comprised mainly of well-drained, sandy soil derived from loess and decomposed basalt. This lies atop the bedrock and gravel bars left behind from the retreating waters of the ice-age floods. The soils of the new AVA encourage deep-rooted vines, being coarser than most of the finer loess-derived soils found in the surrounding areas.
At present, the Columbia Hills AVA contains approximately 338 acres of commercial vineyards and four bonded wineries, including Cascade Cliffs Vineyard and Winery, Jacob Williams Winery, and Waving Tree Winery and Vineyards. While a wide range of vinifera varieties are grown in the area, the leading grapes include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay.
When the Columbia Hills AVA is brought into force—on September 16, 2026—the total number of AVAs in the United States will be 280. Of these, 22 will be in Washington State (including 18 sub-appellations of the Columbia Valley AVA).
Welcome to the world, Columbia Hills AVA!
References/for more information:
- TTB Approves the Columbia Hills AVA
- Petition to Establish the Columbia Hills AVA
- https://www.regulations.gov/docket/TTB-2024-0007
Post authored by Jane A. Nickles…your blog administrator: jnickles@societyofwineeducators.org