Producer Partnerships
This article was originally published in September 2018
Naches Heights Vineyard
Farming fruit has been in Phil Cline’s family for generations. In 2002 Phil founded Naches Heights Vineyard on farmland that had been in his family for more than 75 years.
Nestled on the Naches Heights plateau at the base of the Goat Rocks Wilderness, Naches Heights Vineyard is a picture-perfect Washington winery. They’re also creating a delicious wine while nourishing the native ecosystem.
Fifteen years ago, Naches Heights Vineyards (NHV) moved from conventional growing methods using synthetic, petroleum-based pesticides and herbicides to organic and biodynamic methods. Today, more than 80 percent of NHV labels are LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology) and Salmon Safe certified.
The LIVE wine certification is specific to the Pacific Northwest, requiring strict sustainability criteria for both the vineyard and winery, promoting a low environmental impact across the entire wine production process. The Salmon Safe certification ensures the protection of Washington’s valuable watersheds.
Together the entire Naches Heights American Viticultural Area (AVA) is the first AVA in Washington state to have multiple certifications warranting the most sustainable methods are used. All seven participating vineyards practice either biodynamic or LIVE certified methods.
The superior flavor of Naches Heights wines is from superior soil. “Great wine comes from great soil,” says Phil, “and I’ve got soil older than Mount Rainier.”
It’s true. Naches Vineyard is located on an ancient lava flow. A million years ago Andesite lava from the Cascade Mountains filled the Naches valley. This soil is mineral-rich and contains a high amount of clay, which helps retain water and support grape growth. Perched on the plateau, the unusually high elevation of Naches Heights Vineyards allows for cooler, gentler temperatures that nurture the growth of delightful grapes.
The final key to Naches Heights Winery? It’s beautiful! Located at the edge of the high desert and the base of White Pass, Naches Heights is in the center of the fruit bounty. The vineyards border one of Washington’s most popular rock climbing cliffs and the tasting room boasts picnics, music and events all year.
Visitors are encouraged! Learn more at nhvwines.com/.