Washington: Geography and climate

Western Washington is mild and damp the year round because of the proximity of the Pacific Ocean and the inland sea called the Puget Sound, overlooked by Seattle. Population, limited space, and marginal growing conditions combine to limit vinifera plantings in western Washington to less than 1% of the state’s total. The Puget Sound appellation covers the islands and land adjoining the waters of the Puget Sound, into the Cascade foothills.