Generally south-facing, the vineyards range in elevation from 700 to 1400 ft. The elevation at the highest point of Boushey Vineyard (Birdhouse) is at 1400 feet with soil consisting of silt loam, windblown loess, and deposits from the Missoula floods, all on top of fractured basalt. Mild temperatures, layered soils and longer hanging times add great phenolic ripeness. The wines made from these grapes are well balanced (lower alcohol, better acidity) and offer a very pure expression of fruit. 

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Because the Yakima Valley is cooler than Red Mountain to the East and Wahluke Slope to the North, Dick Boushey is able to let his grapes hang a few weeks longer, accumulating complex flavors without over ripening.