The Yakima Valley AVA was the first American Viticultural Area established within Washington state, gaining the recognition in 1983. Part of the larger Columbia Valley AVA, Yakima Valley AVA is home to more than  of vineyards, giving the area the largest concentration of wineries and vineyards in the state. The most widely planted varietals in the area are Chardonnay, Riesling, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot gris, and Syrah.
The Yakima Valley AVA, established in 1983 as a designated American Viticultural Area within Washington state, is part of the larger Columbia Valley AVA. This region has over  of vineyards, making it home to the most wineries and vineyards in Washington state. The most common grape varieties grown there are Chardonnay, Riesling, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot gris, and Syrah.