Beverly: Washington’s Newest AVA and Its Unique Features

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Discover Beverly, Washington's latest AVA, recognized for its unique climate and soil that produce exceptional red wines.

Introduction

The Washington State wine industry is celebrating a significant milestone with the recent designation of Beverly as its newest American Viticultural Area (AVA). Officially recognized by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) at the end of 2024, Beverly marks the first new appellation in five years. As the 21st official viticultural area in Washington, Beverly is poised to contribute to the region’s already vibrant wine scene. This article will explore what makes this new AVA special and how it enhances Washington’s reputation as a premier wine-producing state.

The Significance of Beverly’s Designation

The recognition of Beverly as an AVA is not just a bureaucratic formality; it symbolizes growth within the Washington wine sector. Kristina Kelley, executive director of the Washington State Wine Commission, highlights that each new AVA reflects the industry’s maturity. The TTB approved seven regions in 2020, but since then, no new areas have been acknowledged until now. This makes Beverly an exciting addition for both winemakers and enthusiasts eager to explore new terroirs.

From November 29, 2024, wineries can apply for labels that include Beverly as their appellation of origin. This opens up opportunities for producers to showcase wines that reflect the unique characteristics of this newly designated area.

Distinctive Characteristics of Beverly

Beverly stands out among Washington’s AVAs due to its unique geographical and climatic conditions. Covering just 2,415 acres (977 hectares), with only 400 acres (162 hectares) under vine, it is one of the state’s smallest appellations. It sits strategically between two prominent regions: Royal Slope to the north and Wahluke Slope to the south. Although part of the larger Columbia Valley, its specific traits set it apart.

The climate here is characterized by intense heat and strong winds influenced by its proximity to the Columbia River. Tom Merkle from Four Feathers Wine Services describes Beverly as “a super-hot, windy location,” ideal for cultivating robust red varieties due to minimal annual rainfall—only five inches, making it one of the driest areas in Columbia Valley.

Ideal Conditions for Red Varieties

Given its warm climate and distinct weather patterns, Beverly is predominantly planted with red grape varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc. These conditions foster vines that produce small berries with thick skins—traits noted by Kevin Pogue from Whitman College who wrote the AVA petition.

The result? Intensely complex wines with rich flavors that are particularly suited for aging. Pogue asserts that “all in all, it’s a place to grow robust red wines.” This characteristic has put Beverly on the map as a promising source for high-quality reds that appeal to discerning wine drinkers.

Industry Insights on Beverly’s Potential

Experts believe that Beverly has great potential not only because of its favorable growing conditions but also due to its strategic location within a thriving wine community. With established vineyards nearby and supportive infrastructure for winemaking, there’s optimism about what this new AVA can achieve in terms of quality and innovation.

As more wineries begin planting vines and developing their craft within this appellation, consumers can expect unique offerings that reflect both tradition and modern techniques. The excitement surrounding this designation might lead to collaborative efforts among local producers aimed at enhancing brand recognition for wines sourced from Beverly.

Conclusion

The introduction of Beverly as an official American Viticultural Area represents a significant advancement in Washington State’s viniculture landscape. With its unique climate conducive to growing high-quality red varietals, it promises not only to enrich local wine offerings but also contribute positively to global perceptions of Washington wines. As producers begin crafting their identities through this newly designated area, both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike should keep an eye on what emerges from Beverly—a place where nature meets artistry.

Photo by Katherine Chase on Unsplash