The south-facing slope, at 1150 ft elevation, is higher than most vineyards in Walla Walla, and perfectly suited to soaking up the warm sun while simultaneously drawing a welcoming breeze that creates good air circulation through the vines. The soils are a sought-after combination of Mt. Mazama volcanic ash content, with windblown loess; this provides deep, extremely well-drained soils. The good drainage means we don't have to worry so much about early frost and this allows for longer hang-time in the fall, giving the grapes time to fully ripen. The vines here are healthy and vigorous; important so that the full canopy can protect the grapes from the scalding Eastern Washington sun, again allowing for slow, even ripening.

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We love this somewhat undiscovered location just northeast of Walla Walla. Owned and operated by the Minnicks, who are 5th generation farmers, this vineyard epitomizes what Anvil by Forgeron searches for when sourcing from vineyards. It is a reasonable size, which allows the owners to really understand and care for each row and each varietal. It is Certified Salmon-Safe and management deploys sustainable weed and pest reduction, adhering to LIVE (Low Input Viticulture & Enology) certification requirements.