Effective September 16, 2026, TTB is establishing the Columbia Hills American Viticultural Area in Klickitat County.

The new 29,387-acre AVA sits entirely within the existing Columbia Valley AVA and currently includes about 338 acres of vineyards and four wineries.

What does this mean for wineries?

If you want to use “Columbia Hills” as an appellation on your wine label:

• At least 85% of the grapes must come from within the new Columbia Hills AVA.

• You’ll need a new COLA, even if your current label is already approved with another AVA.

• Wait until September 16 to submit a COLA application using the new AVA name.

• Since Columbia Hills is nested within Columbia Valley, qualifying wines may use Columbia Hills, Columbia Valley, or both as their appellation.

One other thing to note: existing labels and brand names using “Columbia Hills.” Once the rule takes effect, TTB will consider the name a term of viticultural significance. That means its use on a label can trigger AVA eligibility requirements even when it isn't being used specifically as the wine's appellation.

Call to Action: If you source grapes from this part of Klickitat County—or already use “Columbia Hills” somewhere on your wine labels, be sure to add a calendar reminder for Wednesday, September 16th to begin updating those preexisting COLAs affected by this TTB update.