Oregon, Washington and New York - WSET L3 in Wines Flashcards
Where is the Willamette Valley AVA located?
In northern Oregon, west of the Cascade Mountains, stretching south from Portland.
What is the climate of the Willamette Valley AVA?
Moderate, with cooling Pacific breezes, long sunny days, and cool nights during the growing season.
What is the primary grape variety grown in the Willamette Valley?
Pinot Noir, known for its ripe red fruit flavors, cinnamon spice, and high acidity.
What style of Pinot Gris is produced in the Willamette Valley?
Fruity, dry styles with fresh acidity.
Where is the Southern Oregon AVA located?
Directly south of the Willamette Valley, encompassing Umpqua Valley, Rogue Valley, and other AVAs.
How does the climate vary in Southern Oregon?
Warm overall, but with cooler areas in hillsides and valleys, allowing both cool and warm-climate varieties to thrive.
What grape varieties are grown in Southern Oregon?
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Gris, and Syrah.
Where is the Columbia Valley AVA located?
East of the Cascade Mountains, in the valleys of the Columbia River and its tributaries.
Why is irrigation necessary in the Columbia Valley?
The region lies in the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains and receives little rainfall.
What are the major AVAs within the Columbia Valley?
Yakima Valley and Walla Walla AVAs.
How do long daylight hours benefit grape growing in Washington?
Provide optimal ripening conditions during the growing season.
What is a major climatic risk for Washington vineyards?
Winter freeze, which can significantly reduce crop volumes
What are the primary red grape varieties grown in Washington?
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah.
What are the characteristics of Washington Merlot?
Plummy, full-bodied wines with soft tannins.
What white grape varieties are grown in Washington?
Chardonnay and Riesling, often made in a dry style.
How does the Columbia Valley AVA’s climate influence its wines?
Warm days ripen fruit fully, while cool nights preserve acidity.
Where is New York’s Finger Lakes AVA located?
In central New York, around deep glacial lakes.
How do the lakes benefit vineyards in the Finger Lakes AVA?
The lakes store heat, raising surrounding air temperatures and extending the growing season.
What is the primary grape variety grown in the Finger Lakes?
Riesling, known for its perfumed, high-acidity wines.
What other grape varieties are grown in the Finger Lakes?
Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay, as well as American varieties and hybrids.
What is the climate of the Finger Lakes AVA?
Cool continental, with lake influences moderating extreme temperatures.
How does the climate of Oregon compare to Washington?
Oregon has a cooler, more moderate climate due to Pacific Ocean breezes, while Washington has a drier, warmer climate east of the Cascade Mountains.
How do Rieslings from Washington differ from those in New York?
Washington Rieslings are often dry with ripe stone fruit flavors, while New York Rieslings are perfumed and high in acidity.
What viticultural challenge does New York face?
High humidity and fungal disease pressure due to its maritime influence.
What is the primary climatic challenge for Washington vineyards?
Winter freeze, which can damage vines and reduce yields.
