The Snake River Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA), established in 2007, encompasses northeastern Oregon as well as southwestern Idaho, spanning approximately 8,000 square miles. The bulk of the vineyards and wineries are on the Idaho side of the river. One of the AVA’s defining characteristics is volcanic soil, which (when coupled with colder winters and warmer summers than most winegrowing regions in Oregon) helps give the area its unique terroir. Warmer climate grapes such as Syrah and Viognier can thrive here at higher elevations than elsewhere in the state.
For more information, please refer to the Oregon Wine Board’s regional information sheet.
