Artz Vineyard is named for Fred Artz, a legendary grape grower on Red Mountain. Artz helped plant and manage the famed Klipsun Vineyard for more than 20 years before buying adjacent land and planting his own vineyard. The vineyard is planted on the lower bench of Red Mountain, overlooking the Yakima River at an elevation of 652’ facing southwest. The predominant soil types of Red Mountain are Warden,
Hezel and Scootenay which are a series of wind-blown loess. This variety of soil presents a combination of sand, silt and loam which are exceptional for growing grapes. Artz Vineyard is now owned by the Red Mountain pioneers, the Williams family.
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Established in 2001
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Elevation: 500’ to 1,500’ above sea level
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Located within the Columbia Valley
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One of the smallest and warmest appellations in the state well-suited for Cabernet Sauvignon
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2,000+ acres planted to vineyards
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Southwest-facing slope
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Soil types: sand, silt, loam; lack of soil nutrients along with high pH reduces vine vigor which produces smaller berry size
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Prevailing winds produce thick berry skin and ample tannin levels
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Dramatic nighttime temperature shifts, up to 40ºF help retain acid levels
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The nearby Yakima River provides continual airflow, guarding against frost by moderating temperature