Ancient Lakes AVA

Ancient Lakes AVA (American Viticultural Area) is a wine grape-growing region located in the Columbia Valley of Washington State, USA. It was established as an AVA in 2012 making it the 13th AVA in the state and it covers an area of about 162,762 acres (65,889 hectares) near the town of Quincy, in Grant County.

The AVA is named after the series of deep, narrow coulees and canyons that were carved out by the ice-age floods in the region, creating a unique terroir. The region is characterized by deep, well-drained, caliche soils, and cool, dry weather conditions that are ideal for the cultivation of grapes. The area is also influenced by the Columbia River, which moderates the temperatures, making it possible to grow a range of grape varieties.

The Ancient Lakes AVA is primarily known for its white wines, particularly Riesling, which accounts for a significant proportion of the wine production in the region. Other white grape varieties grown in the AVA include Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewürztraminer. The area is also becoming known for its red wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Syrah.

The area's unique terroir, combined with the expertise of its winemakers, has made it one of the most exciting wine-growing regions in Washington State.

Palencia Winery is a family-owned winery in Kennewick, Washington, producing a range of wines, including Albariño. Palencia 2021 El Viñador Albariño is made from grapes from Two Gun Vineyards, Evergreen Vineyards & Spanish Castle Vineyards in the Ancient Lakes AVA.

Albariño is a white grape variety primarily grown in the Rias Baixas region of Spain, but it has also gained popularity in other areas, including the Pacific Northwest.

Albariño wines are known for their crisp acidity, citrus and stone fruit flavors, and mineral notes. Palencia Winery's Albariño has notes of apple, lemon zest, and tropical fruit, with a bright minerality and refreshing finish.

It is a great wine to pair with seafood. We made Fish Tacos with Mango-Jalapeño Salsa & Lime Crema. Albariño may be worth trying if you enjoy crisp white wines with citrus and mineral notes.