Red Mountain

As mountains go, Red Mountain isn’t really that impressive. The Cascade Mountains just a bit to the west are much taller, and the red color only comes out in springtime when the cheatgrass blooms. In truth, the Yakima Indian name for the area, Kiona, a word that translates as “brown hills”, is a whole lot closer to reality.

As a winemaking region, however, the tiny (approximately 6 square miles in area) Red Mountain AVA is spectacular. Washington’s smallest AVA, in just over 40 years it has gone from being almost literally the middle of nowhere to a vibrant, exciting grape growing region. At the root of this transformation are John Williams and Jim Howard, and the winery they built, Kiona Vineyards and Winery.

Today, Red Mountain is the most desirable address in Washington winemaking. In the words of the Red Mountain AVA Alliance, “It has a unique combination of diverse geology, gentle south slope, consistent winds and notable heat profile. A complex mixture of the most rare and highly valued soil types in Washington was created by wind-blown silt and sand over glacial outflow. The AVA’s red wine grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah are highly prized for creating wines of superb concentration and depth, which consistently earn critical acclaim.”

Highland Wine Merchants is excited to be able to bring these wonderful wines to New Hampshire:
kiona-columbia-valley-riesling
Crisp, clean, and refreshing. A slightly spicy finish puts an exclamation point on the end of this delightfully charming and drinkable wine. A small Gewürztraminer addition adds intrigue and helps to balance acidity. Details…
kiona-cab-merlot-cropped
This classic blend showcases smooth, refined tannins and a long finish. Supple dark berry and earth on the palate round out the experience. Selective blending from some of Washington’s finest vineyards along with careful oak aging yields a balanced, intricate wine. Details…
kiona-estate-red-mountain-sangiovese-cropped
A complex Sangiovese with layers of flavor: bright cherry aromas with just a hint of leather and earth marries with rich red fruit flavors and zingy acid on the finish. Details…
kiona-estate-red-mountain-merlot-cropped
This wine showcases the fruit-forward, well-balanced Merlot characteristic that has achieved legendary status in Washington. Kiona uses 100% free-run juice (the gentlest method available to extract juice from the grape berries) to ensure a long, velvety finish in the wine. Details…
kiona-washington-state-cabernet-cropped
Dark plum and clove on the palate balanced nicely by aromas of black tea, smoke, and earth. A velvety mouthfeel and grippy tannins underpin the elegant flavor profile. Significant aging potential. Details…
kiona-estate-red-mountain-syrah-cropped
Classic Syrah characteristics, supercharged by Red Mountain’s unique terroir. Balanced, yet powerful, this incredible Syrah is unlike any other. Mineral and fruit aromas with earth, spice, and dark fruit flavors. Uncommon intensity and structure. Details…
kiona-estate-red-mountain-reserve
Blending old and new plantings, the 2013 Estate Red Mountain Reserve strikes a remarkable balance between power and finesse. This wine is the answer to the question, “What’s so special about Red Mountain?” Details…
kiona-fortunate-sun
Sweet with lively apricot, nectarine, and peach flavors. The natural acidity of Chenin Blanc adds some zest. A real treat for dessert wine aficionados! Details…

 

View Kiona wines in our catalog