The Washington Wine Commission released fun facts about Washington wine at Taste Washington again this year, and we thought it would be fun to compare this year to last year’s facts:
Washington state is the second-largest premium wine producer in the United States (after California).
- YES in 2011 and 2012
There are 730 wineries in Washington state and 350+ grape growers.
- In 2011, there were 700+ wineries & 350+ grape growers
More than 30 varietals are produced in Washington state.
- In 2011, more than 60 (Interesting reversal!)
The leading white varietals produced in Washington state are Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Viognier, Semillon and Chenin Blanc.
- Same order in both 2011 and 2012
The leading red varietals produced in Washington state are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cab Franc, Malbec, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir and Lemberger.
- Same order in both 2011 and 2012
The ratio of white-to-red wine is 55% white to 45% red.
- In 2011, the ratio was 54% white to 46% red.
The average hours of summer sunlight in Washington state: 17.4 hours per day, about two hours more than California’s prime growing region
- Surprising to many, the answer is YES in both years.
The annual rainfall is eight inches in eastern Washington (our state’s major grape growing region) and 48 inches in western Washington.
- YES in both years
We hope you enjoyed these factoids as much as we did!
Cheers!