Drawing on the model of European winemakers, Abeja was founded on the belief that estate grown fruit not only differentiates a wine but also strengthens the winemaker's ability to make a consistent style and offer exceptional quality. This philosophy has proven to be true of Abeja's estate-grown wines, made from sustainably farmed grapes harvested at Skysill, Heather Hill and Mill Creek estate vineyards.
SKYSILL ESTATE
Skysill is a high-elevation vineyard one mile from Abeja’s Mill Creek winery. The hillside vines benefit from proximity to the Blue Mountains because of a cool evening breeze that sweeps down the mountains, causing dramatic diurnal shifts and temperature inversions. The growing conditions help lock in the wines’ vibrant fruit character and preserve the grapes' natural acidity, a necessary component for aging. Furthermore, Skysill enjoys a longer growing season than other areas of the Walla Walla Valley to enhance the grapes’ expression and complexity. Learn more about Skysill's unique terroir here.
Heather Hill Estate
Heather Hill is located on the southwestern border of the Walla Walla Valley appellation and is notable for its diverse soils, plateaus and slopes. The vineyard's elevation climbs from 850 ft. at the base to 990 ft. at the crest. Because of its varied topography, the site presents, in effect, three unique vineyards, each with distinct chemistry, ripening, and flavor profiles. Planted in 2002 with Cabernet Sauvignon and a small amount of Cabernet Franc, this 19-acre vineyard provides expressive, complex grapes of exceptional quality.
Mill Creek Estate
Surrounding the winery and The Inn at Abeja is Mill Creek Estate. This 12 acre vineyard is located at the base of the Blue Mountains on the east side of the Walla Walla Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) and sits at an elevation of 1300 ft. Because of its proximity to the Blue Mountains, the area is cooler than vineyards on the south side of the valley. Viognier and Syrah were planted here in the late 1990s. Chardonnay and Merlot were planted in 2006. Yields are carefully managed, and Mill Creek grapes are prized for their natural acidity and bright fruit flavors.
Columbia Valley Vineyards
Abeja also works with a handful of Columbia Valley growers who share the winery's dedication to quality, innovation, and the land. These long-term relationships with top vineyards (including Bacchus, Dionysus, Weinbau, Celilo, and Conner Lee) allow our winemakers to work closely with growers to achieve stylistic goals. The added diversity of the sites provides a full-range of flavors at the blending table.
