The Rocks.
The Rocks.
The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater AVA
Where basalt, dust, and vine meet.
One of the world’s most distinctive wine-growing regions, known for volcanic cobblestones, extreme terroir, and wines with unmistakable character.
The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater AVA is a small sub-appellation within the Walla Walla Valley AVA, known for its cobblestone-covered soils formed by ancient deposits from the Walla Walla River.
Unlike traditional vineyard sites, these basalt stones absorb and radiate heat, creating an environment that produces wines with intense structure, savory aromatics, and remarkable depth.
At just 5.9 square miles, The Rocks is considered one of the most distinctive terroirs in the world.
Basalt Cobblestones
Large volcanic stones store heat throughout the day and release it into the vines overnight.
Extreme Terroir
The harsh, rocky conditions naturally stress the vines, resulting in concentrated fruit and complex wines.
Distinctive Wines
The Rocks is known for wines that are savory, earthy, aromatic, textured, and deeply expressive of place.
A Tiny AVA
At only 5.9 square miles, The Rocks is one of the smallest and most unique wine-growing regions in North America.
Our Vineyards
Three vineyards rooted in The Rocks.
VDLA sources fruit from carefully selected vineyards throughout The Rocks District — each contributing its own expression of soil, structure, and character.
Icarus Vineyard
Named after the Greek myth of ambition and risk, Icarus reflects the bold character and intensity that define The Rocks.
Planted: 2022
Elevation: 910–928 ft
Acres: 17.2
Soil: Basalt cobblestones with sand and silt
Varietals: Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Cinsault, Carignan
Daedalus Vineyard
A vineyard rooted in craftsmanship and precision, Daedalus represents both creativity and structure within The Rocks District.
Planted: 2022
Elevation: 873–882 ft
Acres: 8
Soil: Basalt cobblestones with sand and silt
Varietals: Grenache, Syrah, Viognier
Crossfire Vineyard
Dedicated exclusively to white varietals, Crossfire offers a different expression of The Rocks — balancing texture, freshness, and mineral-driven character.
Planted: 2022
Elevation: 867–874 ft
Acres: 7.5
Soil: Basalt cobblestones with sand and silt
Varietals: Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier