Washington – From Warplanes to Wine

February 12, 2025

Marcus Miller and Travis Maple of Airfield Estates take Wine Across America on a journey to Washington’s Yakima Valley AVA. Planting wine grapes since 1968 and operating as a winery since 2005, Airfield Estates produces over 20 varietals, and has a unique, storied history, having served as an Army Air Corps flight school during World War II!

Did you know?

• Washington is the second-largest wine-producing state in the country, right after California, with over 1,000 wineries and 60,000+ acres of vineyards.
• The state’s first wine grapes were planted at Fort Vancouver by the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1825.
• Thousands of years ago, the Missoula Floods carved out the Columbia Valley, leaving behind mineral-rich soils that contribute to Washington’s distinct wine flavors.