Discover the Royal Slope AVA wine sub-region of United States

about this subregion

Overview of the Royal Slope AVA

The Royal Slope AVA is a prominent subregion within the Columbia Valley AVA in Washington. It is located between the Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley AVA to the north and the Wahluke Slope AVA to the south. This AVA features a broad, generally south-facing slope that provides ideal conditions for growing a variety of grapes.

Environment

The environment of the Royal Slope AVA is characterized by its unique combination of elevation, climate, and soil. The elevation ranges from 610 to 1,756 feet above sea level, creating multiple microclimates that benefit different grape varieties. The region experiences significant diurnal temperature variations, with warm days and cool nights, which help maintain the balance between acidity and ripeness in the grapes.

Climate

The Royal Slope AVA has a relatively warm climate, although it is cooler compared to some other AVAs in eastern Washington. The average annual precipitation is low, between 6 to 8 inches, necessitating the use of irrigation to ensure consistent vine health and grape quality. The area also benefits from inversion layers during late harvest periods, which protect the vines from frost damage.

Soils

The soils in the Royal Slope AVA are predominantly composed of windblown silts, known as loess, and sandy loam. These soils are well-drained and fertile, providing an excellent environment for grapevines to develop deep root systems and access essential nutrients. The presence of basalt bedrock in certain areas adds a unique mineral component to the soil, enhancing the complexity of the wines produced.

Main Grape Varieties

The Royal Slope AVA is renowned for producing high-quality wines from a variety of grapes, with the most common being Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Viognier. These grape varieties thrive in the AVA's diverse microclimates and well-drained soils, resulting in wines with distinct characteristics and exceptional quality.

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Location of the Royal Slope AVA

The Royal Slope AVA is an American Viticultural Area nestled within the Columbia Valley in Washington State. This region is renowned for its diverse and picturesque landscape, which plays a crucial role in its suitability for viticulture.

Frenchman Hills Ridge

A defining feature of the Royal Slope AVA is the Frenchman Hills Ridge, a 30-mile long, east-west trending ridge. This ridge features a gentle to medium-steep south-facing slope, which is ideal for grape growing. The south-facing aspect ensures that the vineyards receive optimal sunlight exposure throughout the growing season, aiding in the ripening process. The elevation of the vineyards within the AVA ranges from 610 to 1,756 feet above sea level, creating a variety of microclimates that benefit different grape varieties.

Surrounding Features

Geographically, the Royal Slope AVA is characterized by its unique positioning among distinct landscapes. To the north, it is bordered by the flat lands of the Quincy Valley, known for their shifting dune sands. To the east and south, the terrain drops into the rugged basalt bedrock cliffs of Crab Creek Coulee, shaped by the historic Missoula Floods. On the western edge, the landscape falls away steeply to the Columbia River. This varied topography contributes to the AVA’s diverse growing conditions and the high quality of its wine grapes.

Diverse Slopes and Elevation

Approximately 90% of the Royal Slope AVA consists of gently to somewhat steeply south-facing slopes. These slopes are not only beneficial for grape cultivation due to their excellent drainage but also help mitigate frost risk by allowing cold air to flow downward. The variation in elevation within the AVA supports the cultivation of a wide range of grape varieties, each suited to specific sites and conditions, thereby enhancing the diversity and quality of the wines produced.

Agricultural Richness

In addition to its vineyards, the Royal Slope AVA supports a variety of other agricultural activities. The fertile landscape is used for growing cherries, apples, and various row crops. The combination of rich soils and suitable topography makes the Royal Slope an agriculturally productive area with a long history of farming.

Climate of the Royal Slope AVA

The Royal Slope AVA in Washington State is characterized by a climate that supports a diverse range of grape varieties, thanks to its unique combination of elevation, temperature variations, and low annual precipitation.

Temperature and Elevation

The AVA benefits from a generally warm climate, but it is not excessively hot, making it suitable for both red and white grape varietals. The elevation within the AVA ranges from 610 feet to 1,756 feet above sea level. This elevation contributes to significant diurnal temperature variations, where daytime temperatures can be considerably higher than nighttime temperatures. These variations help maintain the balance between acidity and ripeness in the grapes, crucial for producing high-quality wines.

Precipitation and Irrigation

The Royal Slope AVA receives low annual precipitation, averaging between 6 to 8 inches. This limited rainfall means that vineyards rely heavily on irrigation to provide the necessary water for grapevines. The controlled irrigation practices allow for precise management of vine growth and grape quality, ensuring that the vines receive adequate moisture without the risk of waterlogging.

Microclimates

The diverse range of elevations within the AVA creates multiple microclimates, each suitable for different grape varieties. Lower elevations are warmer and tend to support varietals that thrive in hotter conditions, while higher elevations are cooler, extending the growing season and allowing for the cultivation of grape varieties that benefit from longer hang times. This variety in microclimates enables the Royal Slope AVA to produce a wide array of wines, from full-bodied reds to aromatic whites and sparkling wines.

Frost and Inversion Layers

One unique climatic feature of the Royal Slope AVA is the presence of inversion layers during the late harvest period. These inversion layers can push cold air that settles in lower vineyards to higher elevations, bringing warm air down and protecting the vines from frost damage. This climatic phenomenon is particularly beneficial for varietals that require ripening into late October, providing a safeguard against early frosts.

In summary, the Royal Slope AVA's climate, characterized by warm but not excessively hot temperatures, low precipitation, significant diurnal temperature variation, and protective inversion layers, creates an ideal environment for viticulture.

Most Common Soils of the Royal Slope AVA

The Royal Slope AVA is characterized by diverse and well-drained soils that contribute to the high quality of the grapes and wines from the region. The most common soils found in this AVA include:

Windblown silts (Loess): The majority of the soils in the Royal Slope AVA are formed from windblown silts, also known as loess. These soils were deposited by the wind during the Ice Age Missoula Floods and are highly fertile and well-drained, making them ideal for viticulture. The loess soils provide a good balance of nutrients and moisture retention, which supports healthy vine growth and consistent grape production.
Sandy loam: Sandy loam is another prevalent soil type in the Royal Slope AVA. This soil is a mix of sand, silt, and clay, offering excellent drainage while retaining sufficient moisture for the vines. The sandy loam soils contribute to the development of deep root systems, which can access water and nutrients more efficiently, leading to robust vine health and high-quality grape yields.
Basalt bedrock influence: In certain areas, the soils of the Royal Slope AVA are influenced by the underlying basalt bedrock. This geological feature adds a unique mineral component to the soil, enhancing the complexity of the wines produced. The basaltic soils are particularly beneficial for red grape varieties, providing a well-drained and nutrient-rich environment that promotes strong vine growth and fruit development.

These diverse soil types, combined with the region's unique climate and elevation, create an ideal terroir for cultivating a wide range of grape varieties, resulting in wines with unique characteristics.

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Most Common Grapes of the Royal Slope AVA

The Royal Slope AVA is a renowned sub-region within the Washington wine region of the United States. Known for its diverse elevation and unique climatic conditions, it supports a wide range of grape varieties. Among these, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Viognier are the most commonly grown.

Most Common Red Grapes

Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon is a robust and adaptable grape variety that thrives in the Royal Slope AVA's well-drained soils, which are often composed of fine sand, silt, and sandy loam. The region's elevation, ranging from 610 to 1,756 feet, provides the grape with ample sunlight and a long growing season. This elevation also contributes to significant diurnal temperature variation, which is crucial for maintaining the balance between acidity and ripeness in the grapes. Consistent irrigation, due to the area's low annual precipitation of 6-8 inches, ensures that the vines receive the necessary water supply during the growing season.
Syrah: Syrah is another prominent red grape variety in the Royal Slope AVA, favored for its ability to flourish in warmer climates. The grape benefits from the AVA's south-facing slopes, which maximize sun exposure throughout the day, aiding in the ripening process. The varied elevation allows for different microclimates within the AVA, which is beneficial for Syrah, as it can be grown in both higher and lower altitudes depending on the desired wine style. The region's warm afternoons and cool nights help in developing the grape's complexity while maintaining acidity.

Most Common White Grapes

Chardonnay: Chardonnay in the Royal Slope AVA thrives due to the combination of higher elevation and cooler temperatures compared to other regions. These conditions extend the growing season, allowing the grapes to develop slowly and retain their natural acidity. The AVA's well-drained soils, coupled with controlled irrigation practices, provide an optimal environment for Chardonnay vines. The varied microclimates within the AVA enable growers to plant Chardonnay in locations that best suit the grape's need for balanced sun exposure and temperature.
Viognier: Viognier is a white grape variety that requires a warm growing environment to fully ripen, making the Royal Slope AVA's climate ideal. The grape benefits from the AVA's long growing season and the substantial diurnal temperature variation, which helps in maintaining the grape's aromatic qualities. The region's fine sandy loam soils offer excellent drainage, essential for Viognier vines, which are susceptible to root diseases in overly wet conditions. Consistent irrigation ensures that the vines receive enough water without the risk of waterlogging.

The Royal Slope AVA's unique combination of elevation, soil composition, and climatic conditions make it an ideal location for cultivating a diverse range of grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Chardonnay and Viognier.

Most Common Wines from the Royal Slope AVA

The Royal Slope AVA, located within the Washington wine region, is celebrated for its diverse and high-quality wine production. This AVA's unique terroir and climatic conditions are perfect for cultivating a variety of grapes, resulting in exceptional wines. Among the most common wines produced in this region are Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Viognier.

Most Common Red Wines

Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon from the Royal Slope AVA is known for its rich and robust flavor profile. This wine typically offers deep aromas of black currant, blackberry, and hints of cedar and tobacco. On the palate, it is full-bodied with flavors of dark fruits, such as black cherry and plum, complemented by notes of vanilla and spice from oak aging. The wine often has a firm tannin structure, providing a long and smooth finish. The grape composition is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, sometimes blended with small amounts of Merlot or Cabernet Franc to add complexity and softness.
Syrah: Syrah wines from the Royal Slope AVA are distinguished by their bold and spicy character. Aromatically, these wines exhibit intense notes of black pepper, smoked meat, and dark berries, such as blackberry and blueberry. The flavor profile includes rich layers of black fruit, licorice, and a touch of earthy undertones. Syrah from this region often has a well-balanced acidity and a smooth, velvety texture, making it both powerful and approachable. The composition is primarily Syrah, though some winemakers may blend in small quantities of Viognier to enhance the aromatic complexity.

Most Common White Wines

Chardonnay: Chardonnay from the Royal Slope AVA is celebrated for its bright and fresh characteristics. This wine typically features aromas of green apple, pear, and citrus fruits, with subtle hints of vanilla and toast from oak aging. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with flavors of apple, melon, and a touch of minerality. The acidity is well-balanced, providing a crisp and clean finish. The grape composition is almost entirely Chardonnay, which allows the wine to showcase the varietal's pure expression and the region's unique terroir.
Viognier: Viognier wines from the Royal Slope AVA are known for their aromatic intensity and rich texture. These wines present fragrant aromas of peach, apricot, and honeysuckle, often with floral notes like jasmine. The flavor profile is lush and exotic, featuring ripe stone fruits, hints of citrus, and a creamy mouthfeel. Viognier from this region tends to have a slightly lower acidity, giving it a smooth and round finish. The grape composition is primarily Viognier, occasionally blended with other white varietals to enhance complexity and balance.

The Royal Slope AVA's ability to produce exceptional wines, is a testament to the region's favorable growing conditions and skilled winemakers.

Royal Slope AVA