The mountain covers an area of approximately 4,040 acres (6.31 sq mi).

Its name is derived from the red-wine springtime bloom of the drooping brome or "cheatgrass" on its slopes.

[3] In 2001, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Treasury recognized Red Mountain as an American Viticultural Area (AVA) after reviewing the petition submitted by Lorne Jacobson of Hedges Cellars to establish an area known as "Red Mountain.

"[4] Some of Washington's primer wine estates source grapes from Red Mountain.

Red Mountain's vineyards are characterized by good air drainage, light soils and deeply rooted vines.