During the 1980s the Yakima Valley experienced a boom in the planting of new vineyards and the opening of new wineries. These included Hogue Cellars and Covey Run, both established in 1982, and Chinook Wines in 1983. Image: Yakima Valley AVA founder Kay Simon, Chinook Wines

More remarkable vineyards came into being during the following decade. Mike Sauer planted his first three acres of Cabernet Sauvignon at @RedWillowvineyard in 1973. Forty years later, grapes from Red Willow’s 140 acres supply many of America’s finest winemakers.

Today’s Yakima Valley wine landscape likely emerged in 1962, when Associated Vintners purchased a 5.5-acre site near the town of Sunnyside. This became the Harrison Hill Vineyard, which is now farmed by the @NewhouseFamily for @DeLilleCellars.

Following the hiatus of Prohibition, Bridgman opened Upland Winery and initiated some of the earliest varietal labeling for American wines. Prosser IRAQ hired Dr. Walter Clore, who initiated grape plantings that proved vital to the ascent Washington State wine industry.

Celebrating 40 years as the PNW's first AVA. The first grape vines in the @yakimavalleyava are credited to a French winemaker named Charles Schanno, who in 1869 planted cuttings taken from the famous Hudson’s Bay Company trading outpost at nearby Fort Vancouver.

On March 23, 1983, the Yakima Valley appellation was officially designated by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. It was the first American Viticultural Area (AVA) in Washington State, and the only recognized AVA north of California at that time. Kiona Vineyard

Join us in celebrating 40 years as the first AVA in the Pacific Northwest. In early 1983, the federal government designated the Yakima Valley as the first winegrowing appellation north of California.

Yes, it’s easy to meet the folks behind the wine in @yakimavalleyava wine country (+ the vineyard managers, + the winery dogs, + the owners—you get the idea). The wine making couple behind @Culturawine can be found hanging around their own tasting room 📸 Richard Duval Images

Forget what you've experienced elsewhere: indifferent tasting room attendants, high tasting fees, + too-crowded bars. Here in unstuffy Yakima Valley, expect an awesome glass of wine + some casual conversation (I promise, you'll make a few new friends by the end of the whites).

Yessss, you can even stay at a dreamy Yakima Valley winery 🍷 You are ust steps away from wine tasting, beautiful views, & fine food. The cottage at @vanarnamvineyards has everything you might need including a breathtaking location: winery, tasting room, views.

I’m so sold on 🍃 sustainable wineries. Two Mountain Winery is a leader in Washington Sustainability program. Visit them and ask about their program. You won't be disappointed in what you learn, I promise!

January is a time to set our sights on the year ahead. What would you like to accomplish in in the coming year? If you have an interest in wine, consider a journey in wine education. If you are looking to confidently navigate a wine list, learn 1-2 varieties every month.

Thinking about Sparkling wine for your New Year's celebration? Following is a quick read on champagne and a couple Yakima Valley sparklers to consider for your weekend celebrations.

What is on your beverage list for New Year's Eve?

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas.

Deck the halls with boughs of holly! @owenroewinery

There's no place like home for the holidays. @twomountainwinery

WINTER SOLSTICE signals the official beginning of winter, the coldest season in the Northern Hemisphere. During the winter solstice, the Sun appears to stand still at the southernmost point of the equator.

Have yourself a Merry little Christmas with #vanarnamvineyards!

From wine-growing to winter wonderland. Even under a blanket of snow the vineyards don't lose any of their beauty.