What was Washington state's first approved AVA in 1983?

The correct answer is Yakima Valley, which was designated as Washington state's first approved American Viticultural Area (AVA) in 1983. As an AVA, Yakima Valley signifies a specific geographic area recognized for its distinct terroir, which includes unique climate, soil types, and growing conditions that contribute to the characteristics of the wines produced there. This designation was crucial for the development of the wine industry in Washington, helping to establish a sense of place that both winemakers and consumers could recognize.

Columbia Valley is indeed a large AVA that encompasses Yakima Valley and was established shortly after in 1984. Red Mountain and Walla Walla Valley are also important AVAs in Washington, but they were recognized later, in 2001 and 1984, respectively. Thus, Yakima Valley's designation as the first reflects its role in pioneering Washington's recognition as a significant wine-producing region.