Ch 22&23 US CA Flashcards
Where does the US rank in terms of wine producing countries?
Fourth
Well behind IT, FR, ESP
Well ahead of next 3: ARG, Chile, AUS
What % of US production comes from CA?
Where would CA rank if it were a country
What states follow (at what %)?
CA = >80%, it would be 4th (which is where the US is ranked)
WA ~5%
NY ~4%
OR ~1.4%
How many US states vinify wine? How many states grow vines for wine
All 50 states vinify wine
30 have vines
When did winemaking start in the US?
What challenges were faced?
Europeans have sought to make wine since 1500s
None of native species could produce drinkable wines
From around 1620, cuttings of European vinifera vines were brought
All succumbed to indigenous diseases, pests and unsuitable climatic conditions
What could be considered the 1st commercially viable grape in the US?
Named the Alexander
Natural hybrid of native Vitis labrusca and a Euro Vitis vinifera
Discovered in PA
Building block for the 1st successful commercial venture in the early 1800s
What is the name of the 1st commercially viable hybrid in the US? What others followed? What challenges?
Alexander 1st
Norton, Delaware, Catawba
Still showed some unusual (foxy) aromas not found in pure Vitis vinifera
Where did Vitis vinifera grapes (initially) thrive in the New World
Outside of what was THEN the US, in the Mexican territories of what is now New Mexico, TX, CA
When did winemaking initially take off in the US?
Following the ceding of NM, TX and CA from Mexico to the US in 1848
The Gold Rush of 1849 led to a 50- to 100-fold increase from 1860-1900 in CA
What organization was founded as a result of the boom in winemaking coming out of the Gold Rush? When?
What did it accomplish?
The California Wine Association
1894
Brought trading stability to what could be a chaotic market
Developed distribution networks across the states and beyond
When was prohibition?
- from 1920-1933
What setbacks did the US wine industry suffer following its boom during the Gold Rush?
Prohibition from 1920-1933, when commercial production was limited to sacramental wine and medicinal purposes, although grape juice for home winemaking could be sold
When prohibition was repealed, the US was already deep into an economic recession so wine was an unaffordable commodity and was overtaken by spirits & beer
When did the US wine industry begin to recover from the Great Depression?
in the 1940s and ‘50s
Large co’s such as Roma Wines of Fresno and Gallo of Modesto began producing large volumes to appeal to post-war consumers
However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that there was a true revival in interest from both producers and consumers
What was common in the 1940s and ‘50s in marketing to consumers?
Use of European place-named wines such as “California Sherry,” “CA Burgundy,” and “Pink Chablis” — used to appeal to the post-war consumer
Using celebrity spokesperson and showing wine as a key component of modern, elegant lifestyle
How did the # of wineries in CA change from 1970 to 2014?
What practices changed?
Roughly doubled every 11-12 yr
Went from 240 in 1970 to nearly 4000 in 2014
Efforts were made to better match grape varieties to suitable locations
Improved winemaking practices
What helped states other than CA to venture into/ back into grape growing for wine?
Success of CA wine
Development of new fungicides and pesticides that allowed new plantings of Vitis vinifera as well as new FR hybrids such as Seyval Blanc
More N states (Michigan, Minn, WI) discovered an affinity for cold climate varieties such as Riesling and the hybrid Brianna
What are some of the general challenges that remain for the US wine industry?
Irregular climatic conditions
Restrictive nature of laws in some states regarding the sale of alcohol across state borders
What are US wine regions designated as?
How do they come about?
AVAs or American Viticultural Areas
Designated growing regions that have unique geological and geographical features
Proposed via petition by local grape growers and winemakers
Reviewed by federal gov’t: (US Dept of Treasury’s Alcohol Tobacco, Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB))
What % of AVAs are in CA?
- almost 60% (~140)
Give examples of AVAs shared by more than 1 state
Most AVAs are contained w/in a single state
WA & OR share: Columbia Valley AVA, Walla Walla AVA, Columbia Gorge AVA
OR and Idaho share: Snake River Valley AVA
What larger designation is available in the US, other than AVAs?
Appellations of Origin
Defined by political boundaries, such as name of a county, state, or country
What rules apply to a wine using an Appellation of Origin on its label?
min 75% of the grapes used to make the wine must come from within the political boundary (state, country, county) cited on the label
The wine must also be fully finished within the state in which the county is located
If a US wine label states a variety, what % of the wine must be from that variety?
What other rules apply?
min 75%
The appellation of origin must be sated w/ the variety
Two or more varieties may be stated on the label if the % of each variety is listed
If a US wine label states an Appellation of Origin, what rules apply?
Min 75% of the grapes must come from the stated county, state or country of origin
Where appellations overlap w/ neighboring states, the label must reflect the % of wine derived from each variety from each state
A vintage may only be sated if a min 85% of wine was produced in the stated vintage
What rules apply if a US wine label states an AVA?
Min 85% of grapes must come from that AVA (if OR AVA is listed —> 95%)
Wine must be fermented and finished in the STATE where the AVA is located
A vintage may only be stated if a min 95% of the wine was produced in the stated vintage
Note: some states have stricter req’s
Ex: OR requires 100% to be grown in OR to list OR as the origin
Where does the US fall in terms of wine imports? Consumption?
US is the #1 import market
US is also the #1 consumption market by volume, although it as low per capita rate
Where does the US fall in terms of export volume? Why?
The US is 8th in export volume
A majority is consumed domestically
What % of wine volume in the US is attributable to the 50 largest companies? How many wineries are there?
over 10,000 wineries
50 largest account for >90% of wine sold domestically by volume
Who are the largest US producers?
E&J Gallo (70MM cases)
The Wine Group (53MM cases)
Constellation Brands (35MM cases)
How were grapes initially intro’d into CA? Why?
When did plantings increase?
initially intro’d by Spanish missionaries
Planted at the missions they est’d along the CA coast as far N as Sonoma
Most were used for alter wine and sweet fortified wine
Plantings increased during the Gold Rush of 1849 and the concurrent population increase
What 2 grape varieties became the 2 predominant ones in CA in the mid to late 20th century?
- Chardonnay and Cab Sauv
Who is often credited as a leading pioneer winemaker and consultant in CA wine?
Why?
André Tchelistcheff
Pioneered temp-controlled ferments, better winery hygiene, techniques to prevent various diseases & frost damage
What was a major turning point in putting CA on the global map for wine?
in 1976, the FR vs CA blind tasting known as “The Judgement of Paris”
2 CA wines received top scores: 1973 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars CS, 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay
What rootstock was common when plantings increased after the Judgement of Paris?
Describe its attributes
AXR1
Had some Vitis vinifera ancestry
Proved to be unsuitable when phylloxera started to attack CA vineyards in the 1980s
What happened when phylloxera attacked CA vines planted on AXR1 rootstock?
many vineyards required large-scale replanting
However, this provided an opportunity to re-evaluate site selection, choice of planting material and canopy management, with many deciding to focus more on quality than quantity
What was a CA wine trend in the 1990s?
the rise in deeply colored, highly concentrated and high alcohol red wines
These received critical acclaim and consumers demanded them
Whites tended to be very ripe w/ high levels of oak
This trend has largely passed
What recent trends in CA winemaking?
greater concentration on matching grape variety to the regional or site climate, and soil
A higher # of winemakers w/ experience elsewhere in the world
Highly regarded UC Davis (local wine research)
Ever greater interest in experimenting w/ a wide range of grape varieties, winemaking techniques, and wine styles
Describe the key climatic influences in CA
two key influences: cold Pacific Ocean and the mountain ranges that run the length of the state
The CA current brings water from the N, and “upwelling” (process whereby deep cold water rises to the surface) along the coast means water is much colder here than on US E Coast
Topography is much more influential than degrees latitude, as some of coolest areas are farther S
Coastal Ranges (start in far N of state and run to Sta. Barb) provides some shelter from ocean, but gaps in the ranges (usually b/c of rivers) allow ocean influence to reach farther inland
High diurnal range
Air movement cools vineyards and reduces fungal risk and frosts
Fog can form in afternoon and last into the a.m., cooling as well as reducing sun exposure
Altitude can be a cooling influence in some areas
Areas w/o these influences can be much warmer (Central Valley)
Overall climate is Mediterranean w/o marked contrasts in seasonal temps and w/ a relatively dry growing season
What are CA’s latitudes?
- range from approx 32-42 degrees N latitude
What valley(s) make up the Central Valley?
Sacramento Valley
San Joaquin Valley
What type of wine is produced in the Central Valley
- Inexpensive, high-volume wines
Describe the vineyard practices in CA
Large-scale replanting in 1990s due to phylloxera attack on AXR1 rootstock, Pierce’s disease, and better understanding of vineyard management
Went from fairly uniform pruning and training — low density, high yielding vines, either replacement cane or cordon pruned & trained — to being different densities, training & trellising, variety of planting materials
More emphasis on matching rootstock to the growing environment and grape variety/ grape grower’s aim
Attention to site increased, w/ focus on “precision viticulture”
Why have CA vineyards turned to using more mechanization?
historically, CA had a plentiful skilled-labor pool from Mexican labor
Ongoing federal polices on illegal immigration and work permits has reduced this labor force
Where topography allows, many are forced to use machinery
What challenges does CA face for grape growing?
While the climate is generally favorable (Mediterranean), lack of rainfall means irrigation is installed; however, drought has been a problem and groundwater supplies are decreased, leading to tensions w/ other ag biz’s as well as residents
Local water sustainability agencies enforce water management schemes, monitoring use
Bacterial Pierce’s disease is spread by leafhopper insects called “sharpshooters”
Weather hazards include spring frost (sprinklers, wind machines used to combat)
Wildfires due to warm dry weather —> can damage vines & wineries, but can also cause smoke taint depending on timing
Describe some of CA’s sustainability efforts
a key focus of the state
The California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance — provides a # of resources to aid grape growers and wineries in incorporating sustainable methods and runs certification program “Certified Sustainable”
A # of other certification programs have been founded w/in particular AVAs, ex:
Napa Green Winery
Sonoma County Winegrowers
Lodi Rules
Approx 85% of CA wine production comes from wineries that are certified by 1 of the sustainable certification programs in the state
Describe the state of Organic certifications in CA winemaking. Biodynamic?
Organic certifications are less common but growing
In the US, to be labeled as Organic, there must be NO addition of SO2
By comparison, more wines are labeled w/ “certified organic grapes” meaning that the grape growing process has been certified
A smaller proportion of grape growers are certified Biodynamic
What % of grapes grown in CA is used for winemaking? What is the rest used for?
about 2/3 is wine
1/3 is table grapes and raisins
What % of wine grapes is black grapes?
- about 63% are black grapes
What are the most planted varieties in CA
Chardonnay and Cab Sauv by far most planted, each at just under 20% of plantings
Chardonnay is currently #1, but greater plantings of CS in last few years suggests it will take over
Followed by PN, Zin, Merlot, French Colombard, Syrah, PG, SB
Describe the style(s) of CA Cab Sauv
Styles vary markedly
Site can be influential — if moderating influences —> fresher, black fruit w/ some herbal, less body, lower alcohol
Vineyard management and harvest dates also important, w/ green-harvesting and long hang times giving very concentrated, very ripe styles, often w/ full body and high alcohol
All but some inexpensive wines will be matured in oak; high %s of NFRO are common but maturations times shorter than they used to be for better balance of oak vs fruit
Often blended w/ small %s of other BDX grapes
Describe the style(s) of CA Chardonnay
full spectrum of styles, depending on climate, winemaking practices and price
Sites increasingly chosen closer to the coast or w/ coastal influence or w/ higher altitudes
A # of premium wines are made M+ to full body, often w/ pronounced peach and pineapple w/ 2ndary flavors from MLF/C and new oak
More recently, some producers have been choosing to make fresher, leaner styles w/ less ripe fruit (citrus) and less overt new oak
Sometimes lees contact managed to give struck match aromas from volatile sulfur compounds
Inexpensive are generally made in a soft, easy drinking style w/ M acid, sometimes slight RS and often un-oaked or made w/ oak alternatives (think: chips, staves)
Describe the style(s) of CA Pinot Noir
plantings growing rapidly over last 20-30 yr
Premium to super-premium wines come from relatively cool sites (coastal influence or altitude)
Styles range from M+ acid, M body, M alc, fresh flavors of red cherry & raspberry, to…
Styles w/ greater body, more alc, M to M+ acid, riper flavors, either black fruits or slightly jammy
Trend is to earlier picking and proportion of whole bunch fermentation or stem inclusion to enhance aroma complexity and give greater tannic structure
Maturation in some new oak, generally FRO, is common
Describe the Zinfandel grape in CA
Deemed signature grape of CA, not widely grown elsewhere except Puglia (Primitivo)
Considerable plantings of Old Vines — some over 100 yr old
Prone to uneven ripening
Describe the style(s) of Zinfandel in CA
prone to uneven ripening —> can have combo of M+ acid, some fresh fruit flavors alongside jammy character
Premium: M+ acid, M to full body, ripe M+ tannins, flavors range from raspberry to blueberry & blackberry; AMO often used for maturation as overt vanilla pairs well w/ juicy profile
Inexpensive: soft, ripe, often jammy style, possibly w/ some oak alternatives to give spice flavors
White Zin: typically from Central Valley, Rosé wine, short skin maceration, M pink color, SS ferment at cool temp, stopped early to be Med-dry w/ low alc (often 10.5-11%, M acid, M body, flavors of strawberry, fruit candy; A to G,
Describe the style(s) of Merlot in CA
was popular in 1990s-2000s but plantings declined
Much is made as inexpensive and mid-priced: M acid, M tannins, fruity plummy
A # of producers making premium: more moderate climate such as Stags Leap District or Oak Knoll District in Napa; Higher acid and tannin, greater freshness and complexity
May often be blended w/ other BDX varieties
Describe French Colombard in CA
Same as Colombard
Neutral white grape, also used for IGP wines in S FR
Generally grown in Central Valley in CA for inexpensive wines
Name is rarely seen on labels
Generally blended w/ other white varieties
Often labeled w/ description such as “fruity white” or “dry white”
Describe Syrah style(s) in CA
rising popularity
Does best in areas w/ some cooling influence —> M to M+ body, M+ acid, M+ tannin, fresh plum, blackberry, spice
Small # of producers specialize in Rhône varieties and produce wines from varieties such as Grenache, Cinsaut, and whites such as Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne
Describe the style(s) of Pinot Gris in CA
- tend to be made in dry but fruity style, w/ peach, pear, melon
Describe the style(s) of Sauv Blanc in CA
generally made in a fruity style
Typically fermented in SS and released early
Some producers choose to ferment and mature SB in oak, giving greater body, texture and toasty flavors
Occasionally labeled as “Fumé Blanc” but doesn’t not necessarily mean fermented or matured in oak
Describe Petite Sirah in CA
originated in FR under name Durif
Now more planted in CA than anywhere else in world
Late ripening variety so does best in warm areas
Produces deeply colored, full body wines
M+ to H levels of tannin & acid
Black fruit and spice
Can also be used to blend and add color, body, tannins and acidity to other reds
How do CA AVAs vary in size
some, such as Central Coast AVA, extend down the coast 450km/ 280mi
Others such as Cole Ranch in Mendocinoare just a couple of hundred ha
What % of a grape must be used in CA to use that varietal name on the label?
- must be at least 75%
What % of grapes must come from CA to use California on the label
- must be made entirely of grapes from CA
What % of grapes must come from a named county (such as Sonoma County) to use that on the label
- min75%
What % of grapes must come from a named AVA to use that on a CA label
- min 85% must come from that AVA
What % of grapes must come from a named vineyard to use that on a CA label
- min 95% must come from that vineyard
What % of grapes must come from a named vintage to use that on a CA label
this varies by geographical indication
Min 95% if AVA
Min 85% if purely county or state
What is req’d to use the term “Estate Bottled” on the label in CA
What “unintended consequences”?
wine has been made and bottled at the producer’s winery
Grapes must be from vineyards owned or controlled by the producer that are w/in the same AVA
Creation of a # of very large AVAs permitting some of the state’s largest producers that may have vineyards and wineries far apart to legitimately label some of their premium wines as “estate bottled”
What is a noteworthy common practice in CA relative to wine-producing companies?
What implications?
while many own vineyards, buying in fruit to supplement is common
They may also sell some of the fruit from their own vineyards to other wineries
The bought-in grapes may come from different AVAs or even different county, and can be blended w/ other fruit or kept separate
This model, where many wine producers are acting as either merchants or grower-merchants means that producers make a wide variety of wines, often beneficial to attracting consumers to taste and buy at the cellar door or join the winery’s wine club
How do independent professional grape growers fit into the CA wine biz?
Key to the structure of the biz
Farm 1000s of ha
Grape prices can vary w/ supply & demand
This has lead to head-grafting of vineyards to keep up w/ latest consumer trends
Grapes from well-known, quality-conscious growers are usually in high demand, especially from prestigious vineyards
How does the price of Lodi fruit compare to that of Napa?
- Napa Valley fruit can be around 10x price of Lodi
What is the largest wine company in the world? Largest selling wine brand?
E&J Gallo, founded in Modesto, CA in 1933
Sells round 70MM cases
Barefoot Cellars = biggest brand
What is a “cult wine”? Give examples in CA
wineries producing very small volumes of outstanding quality wines which are in incredibly high demand amongst collectors and some investors
Among the most expensive and hard to obtain in the world
Screaming Eagle Winery
Harlan Estate
Describe the North Coast AVA?
Location
Encompasses?
Northern CA, along Pacific Coast for 160km/100mi and extending 80km/50mi inland
Encompasses substantial proportions of Napa County, Sonoma County, Mendocino County and Lake county
Mayacamas Mountains run through it, dividing Mendocino & Lake County, and extending sound for over 80km/50mi into Napa & Sonoma, down to San Pablo Bay
Where is Mendocino County?
N CA
Runs along the Pacific Ocean to the W
Lake Co is to the E
Sonoma Co is to the S
What grape(s) grown in Mendocino County?
More coastal (cooler) AVAs such as Anderson Valley grow PN, Chard and aromatic whites
Warmer inland AVAs such as Redwood Valley grow Zin, Syrah, PS, CS, and though those with vineyards at particularly high altitudes (such as Potter Valley) can produce aromatic whites such as SB and Riesling
How do prices of grapes from Mendocino County compare to those of Napa & Sonoma?
Mendocino is generally less expensive
Often used for multi-regional blends
How many AVAs in Mendocino County?
- the county encompasses 13 AVAs
Describe the Mendocino AVA (not to be confused w/ Mendocino County)
How many nested AVAs w/in?
Starts at Russian River headwaters
Covers 6 of the county’s AVAs — Anderson Valley, Yorkville Highlands, McDowell Valley, Potter Valley, Redwood Valley and Cole Ranch
Can be used for multi-regional blends among these AVAs
Describe Anderson Valley AVA
Location
Climate
Rainfall & timing
the most well-known of Mendocino’s AVAs
Runs from NW (only a few km from Pacific) to SE which is further inland
Day temps can be warm, but cold air and fog are funneled inland along the Navarro River giving cold evenings and mornings
Further inane, valley becomes narrower and reduces flow of ocean breezes & fog so conditions are warmer
Plentiful precipitation: 900-2000mm/yr, mostly in WI and SP, and NW is wettest
Majority of vineyards planted on sloped sides of valley
Cold nights = frost risk in SP, esp low lying areas
Grape(s) in Anderson Valley
Early-ripening PN and Chard are the 2 most planted varieties
Both are used for both sparkling and still wines
Alsace-style whites also produced from Gewürztraminer, Riesling, PG and PB
Describe Anderson Valley PN
style varies depending on site climate, clones used, and harvest times, but…
Generally have fresh raspberry, cherry, plum
M body
M+ acid
G to O, $$$ to $$$$
Significant producers of Anderson Valley PN
Littorai
Williams Selyem
Describe the wine biz in Anderson Valley AVA
approx 85 wineries
Many have cellar doors to take advantage of tourist trade
Good reputation of PN —> a # of wineries from other areas of the state buy Anderson Valley fruit to make appellation-specific or even vineyard-specific wines
Describe Lake County
Location and location of vineyards
Geo feature(s)
N CA
E of Mendocino County, N of Napa County
In the rain shadow of the Mayacamas Mountains to the W and the Vaca Range to the E —> warm climate
Most vineyards are in the southern part of the county, around Clear Lake (CA’s largest natural lake)
Describe Clear Lake AVA
Geo feature(s)
Where vineyards planted and implication
Largest of the 7 AVAs in Lake County
Has 4 sub-AVAs
Clear Lake takes up ~1/2 of the area of the AVA and provides afternoon breezes
Many vineyards planted on slopes and ridges around the lake at ~400-500m —> benefit from cooling altitude
Grape(s) in Clear Lake AVA
Black grapes are the majority
Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc are 2 most-planted
What is typical of wine made in Lake County?
there are a # of prestigious vineyard sites and wineries, however…
Much of the inexpensive Lake Country grapes are used for multi-regional blends
Describe Sonoma County
Location
How many AVAs
N CA
Borders Pacific Ocean and Mendocino, Lake (in NE corner), Napa, and Marin counties
Encompasses 18 AVAs
What are the 3 overarching AVAs in Sonoma County?
Why are these important?
Northern Sonoma AVA
Sonoma Coast AVA
Sonoma Valley AVA
These are so large that they overlap w/ each other and encompass various smaller AVAs
These overarching AVAs allow producers to use the term “estate bottled” when their vineyards and winery are spread far apart whilst still permitting the word “Sonoma” to appear on the label (rather than North Coast)
What would need to be on the label of a wine made from grapes that come from an AVA that sits entirely w/in Sonoma County need to have on the label?
- must have the words “Sonoma County,” along w/ the name of the AVA
Describe the Northern Sonoma AVA
Where is it?
Boundaries?
One of 3 (large) overarching Sonoma AVAs
Covers large area from Mendocino border (in the N), the Mayacamas mountains to the E, down to Santa Rosa (situated in the middle of Sonoma County)
Vineyards are separated from the Pacific Ocean by the Sonoma Coast AVA
Further defined by the Russian River, which starts in Mendocino County and flows through the N Sonoma AVA
What AVAs are w/in Northern Sonoma AVA?
Alexander Valley
Knights Valley
Rockpile
Chalk Hill
Russian River Valley (plus Green Valley of RRV)
And Dry Creek Valley
What benefit does the Russian River provide to Northern Sonoma AVA?
As it flows through from Mendocino to the Pacific, it fills underground aquifers and provides water for the vineyards
Describe Alexander Valley AVA
Location
Location of vineyards
Rainfall
N CA, NE corner of Sonoma County
Warm climate, cooled in evenings by Pacific air funneled in form the Petaluma Gap and Russian River Valley to the S
Vineyards are both on valley floor and on W/ SW facing slopes and bench-lands of the Mayacamas at elevations of 100-750m
Avg rainfall is 800mm/yr but mainly in WI
What can be said about grapes planted at higher altitudes in Alexander Valley? Why?
the aspect (W & SW) and elevation (100-750m)give long hours of bright sunshine
This leads to grapes that are high in color and tannins
Altitude also helps retain acidity
Describe the soils of Alexander Valley
mixture of soils w/ greater fertility on valley floor and more low-nutrient, free-draining sand and gravel at higher altitudes
Higher altitude —> less vigor & lower yield
Grape(s) in Alexander Valley
CS is the most planted variety
Chardonnay, Merlot, Zin, Petit Verdot, Malbec
Describe Alexander Valley Cab Sauv
full body
Ripe flavors of blackberry, blackcurrant, dried herbs, chocolate
Those from Valley Floor tend to have less tannin whereas those from slopes & bench lands tend to be more structured & concentrated
Typically G to O, $$ to $$$ w/ some $$$$
Significant producers of Alexander Valley AVA
Seghesio
Kendall-Jackson (including Stonestreet Estate)
Describe the Knights Valley AVA
furthest inland AVA of Sonoma County
Separated at N end of Napa County by the Mayacamas
One of the warmest areas of Sonoma County
Surrounded by hills so sheltered from cooling of the Pacific
However, there are cooler sites by planting at higher altitude (~450m) in foothills of Mayacmas
What style of wine is typical from Knights Valley AVA?
Ripe, full-bodied CS — the most planted grape of the AVA
Other grapes include Merlot, Syrah, Zin, and some Chard & SB
What is Dry Creek Valley AVA best known for?
- Zinfandel and Sauv Blanc
Describe Dry Creek Valley AVA
Location
Geo feature(s)
General climate
S of Rockville, W of Alexander Valley, N of RRV, E of Sonoma Coast
Part of Northern Sonoma AVA
narrow valley 3x26km (2x16mi) w/ vineyards planted both on the valley floor and on slopes & bench-lands on either side of Dry Creek river (tributary of the Russian River)
Sheltered by coastal mountains to the W
Has warm days, but mountains on either side funnel cool ocean air and fogs from San Pablo Bay (tidal estuary of SF Bay) —> cooler nights to help retain acid
How can the climate of Dry Creek Valley vary?
Generally, mountains on either side of the valley funnel cool ocean air and fogs from San Pablo Bay
There are slight diffs throughout
Coastal influence means the S of the valley is generally cooler
W-facing vineyards on the E of the river are exposed to afternoon sun tend to be warmer than those on Western slopes
What is the soil of Dry Creek Valley
soils are mixed but tend to be gravel sandy loam on the valley floor and gravel red clay loam on the slopes and benches
These gravelly free-draining soils help reduce vigor and yields
What is Dry Creek Valley known for?
Zinfandel
Home to some old vines of over 100 yr old
Describe a Dry Creek Valley Zin
M+ to full body
M+ acidity
Ripe flavors of black cherry, black plum and cherry
W-facing slopes and northern vineyards —> riper, more jammy and dried fruit
Oak maturation typical, often AMO, w/ some new to lend spice notes
G to O, $$ to $$$
Grape(s) in Dry Creek Valley
best known for Zin
CS, Merlot, CF, Petit Verdot, Rhône varieties (Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Carignan)
Key white is SB
Significant producers of Dry Creek Valley
Ridge
Kinsella Estates
Describe the Rockpile AVA
Where?
What overlaps?
Where are vineyards planted?
N part of Sonoma County
Overlapping w/ Dry Creek AVA and extending into Mendocino County
Vineyards planted on steep rocky slopes AND MUST by above 800ft (~244m) to be w/in the AVA
A variety of aspects and altitudes (up to 650m) leads to a diverse range of growing conditions
What geo influence(s) in Rockpile AVA
What implications
heavily influenced by the snake-like Lake Sonoma which surrounds the bottom of the AVA on 3 sides
The lake helps create an “inversion layer” which keeps the vineyards relatively warm at night (by comp, Dry Creek Valley has warmer days and cooler nights)
The vineyards sit above the fog layer, which stays close to the lake, meaning that they are exposed to long hours of sunshine
Describe the soils of Rockpile AVA
What other influences?
Implications?
shallow hillside soils hold little water
Windy conditions lead to high evapotranspiration rates
Low yields and concentrated, ripe fruit
Grape(s) in Rockpile AVA?
Zin, PS, Syrah, CS, CF, Malbec, PV, even Douro varieties
Significant producers of Rockpile AVA
Seghesio Family
Devil Proof
Describe the Russian River Valley (RRV) AVA
Location and overlap AVAs
General climate
middle of Sonoma County
Included in Northern Sonoma AVA and part of it is in Sonoma Coast AVA
Range of both flat and hilly topography which influences climate, which ranges from moderate to warm
How does the climate of RRV vary by location?
S and W parts are coolest as they receive fog and wind through the Petaluma Gap.
Fog usually arrives in the evening and retreats to the ocean the following a.m.
During this period, it reduces temps significantly which leads to slower sugar accumulation and greater acid retention as the flavor compounds ripen
By contrast, the NE corner is inland, sheltered by hills from fog and breezes, so it is warmer
What grape(s) in RRV?
PN (early ripening) and Chardonnay are the most planted
Inland and NE corner, where it is warmer, CS, Merlot, Zin, and riper styles of Chard & PN
Describe the soils of RRV?
Soils vary, ranging from yellow sandstone to rocky sandy clay loam, but are generally free-draining and low in nutrients, controlling vigor and yield
How has RRV changed in relatively recent history (since 1990s) and why?
The quality of the fruit and the popularity of PN has meant that the boundaries of the AVA have been extended twice
They now include neighboring areas affected by fog
Went from 1600ha to 7200ha (increase 4.5x)
Describe RRV Pinot Noir
M to M+ body
M tannin
M+ acid
Ripe strawberry and red cherry w/ vanilla spice from oak maturation
G to O, $$ to $$$$
Describe RRV Chardonnay
M to M+ body
M+ Acid
Ripe peach & pineapple, often creamy and spicy flavors from MLF/C and oak maturation
G to O, $$ to $$$$
Significant producers of RRV?
La Crema
Rochioli
Describe Green Valley of Russian River Valley AVA (Green Valley RRV)
Location
General climate conditions
Soils and implications
Nested in RRV
Next to the Petaluma Gap where it gains the 1st fogs in the afternoon and is the last area to have fog burn off in the a.m.
Leads to some of the coolest conditions in N CA
Majority of vineyards are on free-draining, low-nutrient sandstone soils —> limits vigor and creates small, concentrated grapes
What grape(s) in Green Valley RRV?
Wine style compared to greater RRV
PN and Chard are the most planted
Used for both sparkling and still wines
Style sim to RRV, but can be higher acid and fresher fruit flavors
Describe Chalk Hill AVA
Location
Geo feature(s)
General climate conditions
Soils
Where are vineyards
grape(s)
located in the NE corner of the RRV AVA (nested w/in)
Just S of Alexander Valley
Hilly area, which blocks some Pacific breezes
Relatively far inland —> warmer climate than surrounding areas
Soil is white volcanic ash (rather than the chalk suggested by its name)
Vineyards planted up to 500m
Chard, CS, SB are most notable varieties
What is the Petaluma Gap (generally)?
A break in the North Coast Range that allows cool Pacific wind and fog to penetrate into areas of Sonoma County
Describe the Sonoma Coast AVA
Location
What (sub)AVAs it covers
General climate
Relatively large — one of 3 over-arching Sonoma AVAs
Runs from Mendocino in the N, along the Pacific Ocean, down to Marin County and San Pablo Bay to the S
Includes the Sonoma side of Carneros, part of Sonoma Valley, the W part of Chalk Hill, and most of the RRV AVA, as well as Fort Ross Seaview and Petaluma Gap AVAs
Wide variety of climates
Wide range of grapes grown
Describe the vineyard conditions in the west of the Sonoma Coast AVA
Location of vineyards —> implications
Hazards
grape(s)
vineyards can be w/in a few km of the coast
Are extremely exposed to cold ocean winds and fog
Cool, windy conditions in SP mean fruit set is often disrupted and yields are low
Growing conditions are also cool, w/ limited sunshine hours due to fog
This means early-ripening PN and Chard dominate
What style of wine, generally, do you expect from Sonoma Coast AVA
likely early-ripening PN or Chard
Relatively light-bodied, high acid styles w/ M alcohol
Significant producers of Sonoma Coast AVA
Occidental
Aubert
Describe the Fort Ross Seaview AVA
Location
General climate conditions
NW of the Sonoma Coast AVA
To use the AVA on label, MUST be made from Vineyards w/in the AVA AND at over 280m
This altitude means they are above the fog layer so gain longer hours of sunshine and warmth compared to surrounding Sonoma Coast
Coastal winds still provide moderating influence on temps
How do Fort Ross Seaview wines differ from the surrounding Sonoma Coast AVA wines? Why?
Wines of Fort Ross Seaview can be riper because of the requirement that to use the AVA, vineyards must be above 280M
This means that the vineyards are above the fog line, so while they are still cooled by proximity to the Pacific, they get more sunshine for ripening
Grape(s) in Fort Ross Seaview AVA
- PN, Chard, and Syrah are the most planted
Describe the Petaluma Gap AVA
Location
How boundaries are defined
One of the newest AVAs
Located in southern Sonoma Coast AVA, southern Sonoma County and northern Marin County
Defined by its wind conditions
Extends from the “Petaluma Gap” in the North Coast Range to San Pablo Bay
Open to the coast at both ends, high-speed coastal winds flow throughout the AVA
AVA boundaries were defined according to an area that maintains at least 12km/hr (8m/hr) winds thru the growing season
What climate conditions are found in Petaluma Gap AVA? Implications?
Winds of at least 12km/8m per hr are persistent thru the growing season
This lowers temps, but also winds are strong enough to cause leaf stomata to close, slowing respiration and photosynthesis
Grape(s) of Petaluma Gap AVA?
PN = 75% of all plantings
Chard and Syrah follow
What can generally be said of wines from Petaluma Gap AVA
often PN, but could be Chard or Syrah
Tend to have high acidities, fresh fruit flavors, lower alcohol compared to more sheltered inland appellations
Describe Sonoma Valley AVA
Location
Geo feature(s)
Where is it coolest and why
Sub-AVAs
SE part of Sonoma County
Bordered on the E by Mayacamas mountain range and the W by the Sonoma mtn range which shelter it from cool Pacific breezes
S part of AVA is coolest, b/c opens to San Pablo Bay
Cold winds from San Pablo Bay moderate temps and lead to slower ripening in S part of valley
Sub-appellations include Sonoma Mountain AVA, Bennett Valley AVA, and Carneros AVA
Describe Sonoma Mountain AVA
Location
Location of vineyards and implications
on W side of Sonoma Valley
Most vineyards on E-facing slopes w/in the Sonoma mountain range
Most vineyards up to 730m, above the fog line, exposing grapes to intense sun and warm daytime temps —> ripe flavors and tannins and deep color
However, cold air coming down from the mountains can give cool nights —> helps retain acidity
Describe the soils of Sonoma Mountain AVA
volcanic, free-draining, low in nutrients
Controls vigor and yields
Helps create concentrated wines
Grape(s) in Sonoma Mountain AVA and where applicable, where grown
Cab Sauv = most planted
Merlot, Zin, Syrah
Chard, SB and Semillon generally planted on cooler sites, generally on W side of AVA where there is more coastal influence
Describe the Bennett Valley AVA
Location
General climatic conditions
Grape(s)
a sub-AVA of Sonoma Valley
Smallest AVA in Sonoma County
Surrounded by hills, giving warm, sheltered conditions in the day but cool air and fog flows into the valley thru a break in the hills at night
Syrah, Merlot, SB, Chard are key varieties
Other Rhône varieties such as Grenache and Viognier are also planted
Describe Carneros AVA
Location and implications
Elevation
located between San Pablo Bay to the S and Sonoma & Napa to the N
Proximity to the Bay = AVA is affected by fog and cold winds in the a.m. and p.m., though the daytimes are usually warm and sunny
Relatively low elevation, rising from sea level to ~200m
What is Carneros AVA best known for?
Other grape(s)
PN and Chard, w/ a portion used for sparkling wine
Merlot, Syrah, CS
What is the general style of (still) wine from Carneros?
typically PN or Chard
Wine from both grapes tends to range FROM M-body, M alcohol, M+ acid, and fresher fruit TO fuller-bodied, riper, higher alcohol styles
Tend to be G to O, $$ to $$$$
Significant producers of Carneros
Kistler
Tor
Ramey
What is the difference if you see Carneros vs Los Carneros on a wine label?
- Wines can be labeled using either one
Since Carneros overlaps both Sonoma and Napa Counties, what labeling rules apply
wines can be labeled using Carneros or Los Carneros
Grapes and wine from the Sonoma side may use “Sonoma County”
Grapes and wine from the Napa side may be labeled “Napa Valley”
If grapes and wine come from both counties, it can only be called “Carneros”
How does Carneros fit into the greater wine biz in Sonoma and Napa?
Carneros was recognized for its cooler climate back in the 1980s (earlier than other areas w/ similar or cooler climates)
Many large companies based elsewhere in Sonoma and Napa own vineyards in the area (and have for many decades) or they might buy in fruit either to bottle as “Carneros” or to provide higher acid, fresh fruit component to a blend w/ fruit grown under warmer
What % of CA production does Napa Valley produce? What % of retail value?
- Napa produces 4% by volume, but 27% of the retail value
What must be on labels of wine from any one of the 16 AVAs in Napa Valley?
- Conjunctive labeling laws mean that wines that qualify to be labeled w/ a single specific AVA (e.g. Rutherford, or Stags Leap District) must also include the words “Napa Valley” on the label
Describe Napa Valley
Location and location of vineyards
Geo features and implications
The Valley is 50km long and 8km wide (30x5 mi)
Formed by the Napa River, the Mayacamas mountains to the W & N, and the Vaca mountains to the E
Vineyards are found both on the valley floor and on the mountain slopes on either side
Mayacamas mountains shelter the valley from the cold Pacific Ocean
Vaca mountains protect from the hot Central Valley
The valley is open to the San Pablo Bay in the south; as vineyards heat up during the day, air rises and pulls cool air and fog from the bay up the valley in the afternoon
Describe the Valley Floor AVAs of Napa Valley
cold air and fog is felt particularly by the valley floor vineyards which sit under the fog layer giving high diurnal range
The most affected vineyards are those in the southerly parts of the floor such as Carneros AVA, Coombsville AVA, but also Oak Knoll AVA
In these, the fog does not burn off until well into the morning, limiting the hours of warmth and sunlight
Grape(s) in Coombsville and Oak Knoll AVAs
Cab Sauv is the main grape
Merlot and Chard also widely grown
How do wines of Coombsville and Oak Knoll AVAs compare to the rest of Napa
due to relatively cool conditions, CS and Merlot tend to be lighter-bodied, w/ fresher fruit than warmer AVAs
Describe Yountville AVA, Stags Leap District AVA, Oakville AVA, and Rutherford AVA climate conditions
located further N than Coombsville, Carneros, and Oak Knoll
Have warm climates but nights are still cooled somewhat by the winds and fog from the bay — more so in Yountville (farthest S) than in Rutherford (farther N)
Grape(s) in Yountville AVA, Stags Leap District AVA, Oakville AVA, and Rutherford AVA
CS is predominant
Smaller plantings of Merlot, CF and some Zin in Rutherford
Describe Cab Sauv from the middle Napa Valley floor AVAs
concentrated ripe fruit
M+ to full body
High ripe tannins
Tend to be rounder and more fruity in youth than the more structured wines from the mountains, w/ juicy blackcurrant, blackberry and plum fruit and often notes of spice (licorice, cloves) or herbs
Describe Sauv Blanc from the middle Napa Valley floor AVAs
ripe juice peach and tropical
M+ acid
What is the most famous vineyard area in Oakville and Rutherford
The Rutherford Bench
Narrow (5km, 3mi) stretch of vineyards is located on a gently sloping alluvial fan at the bottom of the Manacamas range
Which Napa Valley (floor) AVAs are farthest north? Describe their conditions
St Helena AVA and Calistoga AVA
Barely receive any cooling influence from San Pablo Bay
Conditions are warm to hot
Calistoga gains some cooling influence during the afternoon and night from Pacific breezes that come through the Chalk Hill gap (a break in the Mayacamas)
Grape(s) of St Helena AVA and Calistoga AVAs
CS is widely planted
Merlot
Syrah, PS, Zin
How do Valley Floor AVAs in Napa differ from Mountain AVAs ?
Implications?
Vineyards on the mountains on either side of the valley floor are generally above the fog layer
Hence, they can receive longer hours of sunlight than many of those on the Vally floor
The cooling influence for these “mountain AVAs” is altitude (up to 800m)
Overall, this means that they have less temp extremes and a lower diurnal range
In general, the combo of climate and soils means that wines from the mountain AVAs often have higher levels of tannins and acidity than those from the valley floor
How do Napa vineyards on West-facing hillside vineyards differ from those with East-facing aspects?
How does this play out in the various hillside AVAs?
West-facing vineyards (generally those on the E side of the valley) are exposed to the intense afternoon sun, and hence tend to be warmer than those that face E —> higher alcohol, riper fruit
But don’t forget that there is also a diff between N and S. So Mount Veeder AVA on the SW of the valley is the coolest mountain AVA w/ CS struggling to ripen some yrs
Atlas Peak AVA to the SE of the valley is also relatively cool but does gain afternoon sun
By comparison, Howell Mountain AVA in the NE is one of the warmest, producing intensely concentrated, ripe CS w/ high firm tannins
Spring mountain District AVA and Diamond Mountain District AVA on the NW side tend to be slightly cooler
Describe the soils of Napa Valley
wide variety of soil types due to tectonic plate and volcanic activity form >150MM years ago
Soils change over small areas and it is possible to find multiple soil types in a single vineyard
Broadly speaking, soils on the mountains tend to be thin and poor in nutrients, restricting vigor and leading to reduced yields of small, concentrated grapes
Soils in the middle and east of the valley floor typically made from silt and clay formed by the Napa river as it has flooded and shrunk over time
These soils have the highest fertility and water retaining capacity and wines tend to be less structured than those form the mountain or alluvial fans
Describe alluvial fans in Napa Valley
Implications?
Alluvial fans have been crated at the bottom of mountains, generally not eh west side of the valley, caused by the deposition of sediments by mountain streams as they reach the flat valley floor
The grapes and resulting style of wine is considered to be between that of the mountains and mid-valley floor
Many valley floor AVAs have both alluvial fans and fluvial soils in their boundaries
What % of Napa Valley is under high levels of protection from development? Why?
nearly 90% is under protection
This means that despite its desirable location not far from SF Bay Area, it is not under threat from housing and biz construction
This is due to The Napa Valley Agricultural Preserve, est’d in 1968, which awarded tax benefits for people who kept vineyard land rather than building upon int
What +/- comes from limitations on development in Napa Valley?
positives: despite its desirable location not far from SF Bay Area, it is not under threat from housing and biz construction
Cons: almost all viable and permitted vineyard land w/in the Napa Valley has been planted. Legislation prevents land w/ more than 30% slope from being converted to vineyard. Instead, these areas are generally forested which helps reduce erosion
Popularity and prestige of Napa Valley wine, along w/ an inability to expand production, leads to incredibly high grape prices (could be + or -)
What are typical vineyard management practices in Napa Valley?
vines typically pruned and trained to cordon or replacement spur, w/ VSP trellising
Mechanization can only be used on the valley floor vineyards
Drip irrigation is widely installed due to dry growing season
What hazards in Napa Valley?
drought (although drip irrigation is common)
Cool night temps —> frost can be a problem, particularly in valley floor (air movement and warmer nights in mountain AVAs reduce risk)
ME: Pierce’s disease?
What is Napa’s sustainability initiative ?
Certification program = Napa Green
Available for both the vineyard and the winery
Currently ~60% of vineyard land is certified as Napa Green
What % of Napa production is CS? Value?
accounts for 40% of total production
55% of crop value
grape(s) of Napa
CS
Smaller plantings of Merlot, PN, Zin, PV, Malbec, CF, Syrah, and PS
Chard is the most planted white, followed by SB and PG
How has Napa’s wine style evolved over the past few decades?
in the 1980s and 90s, preferences for full-bodied, intense wines; grape often harvested relatively late (long “hang time”), giving extra ripe flavors, high alcohols, and lower acidities; both R&W matured in high % new oak, giving overt vanilla, coconut, and toasty character
Today, far more divergent. General trend is to pick earlier (extra ripe rarely seen). High % of new oak still common for red, but less time in oak. Generally “well-resourced” — equipment ranging from optical sorters for selecting the healthiest fruit, to concrete eggs to provide diff blending options
Even if reds fulfill the req’s for single varietal labeling, they are likely to have a small % of other varieties in the blend
Is blending common in Varietal wines of Napa?
Even if reds fulfill the req’s for single varietal labeling, they are likely to have a small % of other varieties in the blend
Typically a high % of CS with small %s of Merlot, CF, and/or PS
Blending across diff vineyards also common
Blending of diff AVAs also common — this may include vineyards on diff soil types (alluvial fan vs fertile fluvial soils) or blending of fruit from cooler S AVAs w/ warmer N AVAs
Single vineyard wines can still also be found, particularly if sourced from well-known vineyards such as To Kalon (Rutherford Bench area) or Martha’s Vineyard
Significant producers in Napa Valley?
Scramming Eagle
Harlan Estate
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars
What can be said about Napa Valley CS style?
varies up and down the valley
Depends a lot on site and choices made in grape growing and winemaking
Tend to be G to O
Usually $$$ to $$$$
What key white varieties are grown in Napa Valley?
Chardonnay and Sauv Blanc
Describe Napa Valley Chardonnay and Sauv Blanc
As with Napa reds, profiles of white wines are influenced by the site.
Cooler valley floor AVAs give higher acidities, warmer valley floor AVAs give riper fruit characteristics (more stone fruit and tropical rather than citrus) and mountain AVAs typically produce wines with less pronounced fruit.
Chardonnay is often fermented and matured in oak, but usually less new oak than in the past.
Sauvignon Blanc is usually made in an unoaked style (stainless steel fermentation, early release), but some producers make an oaked style.
Describe the Central Coast AVA
Location
General size
influence(s)
parallels Pacific Ocean coastline
Runs for 450km(280mi) from SF to Sta Barbara
Extends ~95km/60mi inland from coast
Cooled by marine air funneling through gaps in the coastal hills
Included multiple counties, each of which have smaller AVAs
Southern Coast Ranges (mountains), including Santa Cruz, Gabilan, and Santa Lucia ranges, run N to S, Sheltering vineyards to E from cool wet fog rolling in from Pacific
At certain points, esp Santa Barbara County’s Transverse Range, the orientation shifts to an E to W direction, funneling the cool marine air and cooling down growing areas
Describe the Livermore Valley AVA
Location
Climatic conditions
Soils
on E side of SF Bay in Alameda County
Subject to afternoon winds as hot air rises from inland Central Valley to its east, sucking in cool air from SF Bay
Stony soils are free draining —> help keep vigor low
Grape(s) in Livermore Valley AVA
General profile features and why
Chardonnay, CS, SB, Zin
Wines tend to have concentrated, ripe flavors and tannins, but w/ fresh acidity (think stony, free-draining soils, cool air from SF Bay)
Describe the history of the Livermore Valley AVA
One of CA’s oldest
Initial plantings in 1760s (!) by Spanish Missionaries
In 1880s, Wente Vineyards was est’d using Chardonnay cuttings from Meursault
Concannon Vineyards was founded using CS vines from Margaux
These are some of the oldest, continuously running wineries in the US, operating during Prohibition by producing sacramental wine
Today, about 80% of CA CS (clones 7, 8, 11) and Chardonnay (Wente clone) are genetically related to these original cuttings
Describe the Santa Cruz Mountain AVA
Location
Influences
Climatic conditions
Santa Cruz Mountains are part of the Coast Range that runs down the N and Central CA coast
Includes 3 counties: Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Mateo
Many of the vineyards are planted at high altitudes (up to almost 800m) along a ridgeline, providing moderating influence on daytime temps
At night, cool air slips down the slopes, forcing warm air upward. Nights remain relatively warm and frosts are generally avoided
Grape(s) in Santa Cruz Mountain AVA
Main
Others grown and where
Quality and price
CS, Chard, and PN are most planted
The AVAs E side (which borders Silicon Valley) is warmer and better suited to Zin, CS, Merlot
Overall, G to O, $$ to $$$$
Significant producers from Santa Cruz Mountain AVA
Ridge
Mount Eden Vineyards
Describe Monterey County location
Based w/in the large Salinas Valley that runs from Monterey Bay in NW of the county to the border w/ San Luis Obispo County in the S, or in the mountain ranges either side of the valley
Describe the Monterey AVA
Relative size
influence(s) & climatic conditions
Largest of Monterey County, stretching 130km/80mi
Majority follows Salinas River Valley
Moderated by cool marine air funneled from Monterey Bay
Salinas Valley opens directly onto Monterey Bay in the N
Due to a deep canyon in Monterey Bay, the water is particularly cold = afternoons and evenings in Salinas Valley can be particularly cool & windy
Grape(s) of Monterey AVA
Where?
The coolest areas toward the N of the valley are planted w/ PN and Riesling
Warmer sites further inland can ripen CS, Merlot, Syrah, Zin
Chard is grown in both the cooler and warmer sites, and is the MAIN variety w/ over 50% of plantings
Soil(s) of Monterey AVA
Sandy loam and gravel —> free draining
Low growing season rainfall means irrigation is essential, w/ water sourced from Salinas River
Vineyard location in Monterey AVA and implications
- Availability of irrigation and ease of mechanization on large flat valley floor = many grapes go into inexpensive and mid-priced high volume wines, either from Monterey or cross-regional brands
Describe the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
General location and location of vineyards
part of Monterey County
30km/18mi long area of SE facing alluvial terraces overlooking Salinas Valley
Planted up to around 350m
Describe the climatic conditions in Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
Implications
Vineyards planted to 350m
Relatively near Monterey Bay so exposed to winds and fogs (from deep valley in Bay)
Elevated locations take full advantage of a.m. sunshine b4 noon maritime breezes cool the vineyards
It can be so cool that the stomata close, slowing ripening
grape(s) in Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
General wine profile
key varieties are Chardonnay, PN w/ Syrah in more sheltered sites
Produce wines w/ fresh flavors and high acidity (think: cooling of Monterey Bay, fog, slowing of ripening b/c cool temps can cause stomata to close)
Describe Arroyo Seco AVA
in Monterey County, in the S & E of the Santa Lucia mountains
Not to be confused w/ Arroyo Grande Valley AVA in Paso Robles
Stars in the Arroyo Seco Canyon — a narrow gorge at the foot of the Santa Lucia mountains — and then opens out onto the Salinas Valley floor
Vineyards in the canyon are more sheltered
Named for the “dry creek” upon which it sits
Grape(s) of Arroyo Seco AVA and where they are typically grown
CS, Syrah and Zin are grown in vineyards w/in canyon that are more shelter from coastal influences
Valley floor sites are exposed to afternoon breezes so better suited to Chardonnay and Riesling
Describe Chalone AVA
Location and location of vineyards
Climatic conditions
Soils and implications
E part of Monterey in the Gabilan Mountain Range
Vineayrds planted at around 550m —> sits above the fog line
Days are warm, w/ long hours of sunshine, but nights are cool, helping to retain acid
Granite & limestone soils —> free-draining -> low yields of concentrated grapes
Describe Carmel Valley AVA
Location
Vineyard locations
Climatic conditions & influences
Vineyards predominantly located w/ in Carmel Valley, a small Valley parallel to the wider Salinas Valley, and the Cachagua Valley which is further inland
Vineyards can be up to 670m so sit above the fog line
Depending on aspect, vineyards can be shelled from coastal influences and thus can be among the warmest in Monterey
However, altitude and being surrounded by mountains means that nighttime temps are still cool
Grape(s) in Carmel Valley AVA (+ where)
CS and Merlot are most planted in altitude sites above the fog line, sheltered form coastal influences but still w/ cool nighttime temps
Nearer the coast, in cooler sites, mainly PN and Chard
Location of San Luis Obispo (SLO) County
between Monterey County and Santa Barbara County
On the Pacific Coast
What are the main AVAs in SLO County?
Paso Robles AVA
Edna Valley AVA
Arroyo Grande AVA
Describe Paso Robles AVA
Relative size
Climatic conditions and influences
until 2014, largest undivided AVA in CA (almost 3x Napa Valley)
Now has 11 sub-AVAs, reflecting distinct growing environment features rather than political boundaries (as is often the case in CA)
Ranges from valley floors to rolling hills to mountains w/ altitudes up to 670m (cooling influence)
E is generally warmer
W, nearer the Pacific Ocean, generally cooler
The Templeton Gap on the W side of PR is a low point in the Coastal Range and allows Pacific Ocean cold air to reach further inland, providing moderating influence on temps of the W sub-AVAS
Which sub-AVA(s) of Paso Robles are best known? How are the wines labeled?
Adelaida District AVA is probably best known
Located in Santa Lucia Mountains in the NW
Can be labeled w/ the sub-appellation but must ALSO indicate “Paso Robles”
Generally speaking, how do the wine styles in Paso Robles differ depending on where they come from?
E parts of Paso Robles tend to have a warmer climate —> fuller-bodied wines w/ concentrated, ripe fruit flavors
W areas, nearer the Pacific Ocean, generally cooler so produce wines w/ higher acidity and fresher flavors
Describe the soils of Paso Robles
Calcareous soils — not widely found in CA — are a feature throughout much of the AVA
Some areas have a clay soil texture (good at retaining water) —> w/ moderate annual rainfall, producers can dry farm
Grape(s) of Paso Robles
Style(s) of wine
Black grapes make up vast majority
CS is most planted at ~40%
Merlot, Syrah, Zin also common
Wide range of Rhône varieties
Much of the region makes inexpensive to mid-priced of G quality
A # of producers make VG to O wines at mid- to premium prices
Noteworthy producers from Paso Robles
Tablas Creek
Saxum
Describe Edna Valley AVA
in Paso Robles
Known for being one of the coolest AVAs in CA
About 8km / 5 mi from the Pacific Ocean
Valley lies NW-SE and receives cool fog and wind from Morrow Bay to the N
Grape(s) of Edna Valley AVA
most known for high quality Chard and PN (both still and sparkling)
A range of others such as Syrah, SB, Albariño and Viognier
Describe Arroyo Grande Valley AVA
Climatic conditions and implications
sub-AVA of Paso Robles (not to be confused w/ Arroyo Seco AVA in Monterey)
along w/ Edna Valley, considered one of the cooler areas of CA
Days are warm & sunny, however, the valley lies NE-SW which funnels in cool Pacific fog and wind up into the valley from the SW and cools night temps —> grapes have high retained acidity
Grape(s) in Arroyo Grande Valley AVA
since this is one of the coolest AVAs in CA (along w/ Edna Valley), PN and Chard dominate (both for still & sparkling)
There is some Zin and Syrah planted in warmer, inland areas
Describe Santa Barbara County
General location
Geo feature(s) and implications
Climatic conditions and implications
Southernmost part of Central Coast AVA
Six AVAs
AVAs are located in the Transverse Ranges — an E-W orientation of the Southern Coast Ranges formed by plate tectonic shifts
Here, the W side of the valleys face the Pacific Ocean and funnel in the cooling breezes and fog eastward into vineyards, lowering temps significantly
W sides of the AVAs are usually cooler and windier than E sides
Air circ helps reduce risk of frost and fungal diseases —> grapes can be kept on the vine into AU which can be needed in coolest sites
What are the AVAs of Santa Barbara County?
Santa Maria Valley
Santa Ynez Valley w/ 4 sub-AVAs
Sta. Rita Hills
Ballard Canyon
Los Olivos District
Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara
Grape(s) of Santa Barbara County and general styles
Chardonnay and PN are most common
PN = M+ to H acid, M to M+ body, M tannins, flavors of red cherry and plum; alcohol can be high
Chardonnay = M+ to H acid, M to M+ body, lemon, grapefruit, peach
Syrah is often grown on warmer sites; M or M+ body, M+ tannins & acidity, fresh flavors of blackberry & plum
A range of other grapes grown: SB, CS, Rhone varieties particularly Grenache & Viognier
Overall, tend to be G to O, $$ to $$$$
Significant producers of Santa Barbara County
Sine Qua Non
Mail Road Wines
What rule does Santa Barbara County have about “Cellar Doors” (tasting rooms)
Legislation prevents setting up cellar doors on the site of the winery
Any cellar door or tasting room must be in a town or city
Describe Santa Maria Valley AVA
Location and location of vineyards
Climatic conditions
in N portion of Santa Barbara County
Valley runs W to E, consistently funneling cool Pacific Ocean air E to the vineyards, keeping temps cool
Planted around 100-250m on hillside slopes on sandy clay shale loam
Main grape(s) of Santa Maria Valley AVA
located in cool Santa Barbara County
PN and Chard main
Followed by Syrah and Viognier
What are the sub-AVAs of Santa Ynez Valley AVA
large AVA w/ both cool coastal and warm inland temps
Sta. Rita Hills AVA (cool)
Ballard Canyon AVA (more sheltered)
Los Olivos AVA (relatively low diurnal range)
Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA (furthest from Pacific, but altitude cooling)
Describe the Sta. Rita Hills AVA
Location and geo features
Climatic conditions
distinguished by cool temps and calcium-rich soils
E-W orientation framed by Purism Hills to N and Santa Rosa Hills to S
W edge of Santa Ynez AVA, closest to Pacific Ocean
1st area to receive the cool Pacific fog and breezes that funnel inland thorough the Transverse Ranges
Hilly terrain w/ diverse mix of soils
Grape(s) of Sta. Rita Hills AVA
PN, Chard, SB, Viognier, Syrah
Out of all of the AVAs in Santa Barbara, it is particularly known for its PN
Describe Sta Rita Hills AVA Pinot Noir
M+ to H acid
M+ tannins
Black cherry, black plum, tea leaf & savory notes
$$$ to $$$$ b/c of small supply and strong demand
Describe Ballard Canyon AVA
Santa Barbara County, but located further inland
Plantings relatively small
Canyon runs N to S, sheltering vines from much of cool breezes from Pacific
Does get overnight fog — > cooler nights
Warmer growing conditions
Grape(s) in Ballard Canyon AVA
warmer growing conditions —> later-ripening Syrah and Grenache (rather than the PN and Chard often seen elsewhere in Santa Barb.)
Describe Los Olivos AVA
Location
General climatic conditions
grape(s)
Santa Barbara County
Alluvial terraces above the Santa Ynez River
Between Ballard Canyon AVA and Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA
Warm, sunny days, but w/o altitude or much fog has relatively low diurnal range
Mix of BDX, Rhône and IT varieties
Describe Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA
Location
Geo features and climatic conditions
small, newly formed
E-most end of Santa Ynez AVA, furthest from Pacific Ocean
Where the E-W Vally shifts orientation to N-S and blocks the Pacific coastal breezes, giving warm temps
Cooling influence comes form high altitude sites and exposure to afternoon winds, which can give high diurnal range
Grape(s) of Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA
CS and SB are most planted
Other BDX varieties, Syrah, Grenache
Describe the Central Valley of CA
Relative size
General profile of vineyards and implications
Climatic conditions
Entirely inland and covers a large area
Consists of 2 valleys: Sacramento is northern 1/2, San Joaquin covers S “half” although Sacramento is 6700 ha under vine vs SJ w/ 61000 (nearly 10x)
High yielding vineyards on flat fertile soils
Daytime temps regularly 35-40C/ 95-104F = very ripe grapes
Grape(s) in CA Central Valley?
- common varieties include French Colombard, Chard, Muscat, Zin Merlot
Significant producers of CA Central Valley
E&J Gallo
Bronco Wine Company
How are wines from CA’s Central Valley often labeled?
Central Valley, Sacramento Valley and San Joaquin Valley are not AVAs so wine from here is typically labeled as California
Wines from AVAs within might be labeled w/ that AVA (such as Lodi)
Describe Lodi AVA
Location
Climate and climatic conditions
General location of vineyards & implications
Sits at N end of Central Valley, ~160km/100mi inland from the SF Bay
Large area (~2x size of Sonoma County)
Hot Mediterranean climate, moderated by cooling afternoon winds from both SF Bay and Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta
Flat land in area w/ breaks between the N and S Coast Ranges means that breezes off the Bay can travel far inland
Vineyards on flatlands of free-draining sandy and clay loam
Low rainfall = irrigation widely used (sourced from Mokelumne River)
Windy conditions reduce fungal disease risks and frost
What is typical vine training in Lodi?
viens are usually cordon-trained and VSP trellised since replacement can systems would require more labor
However, oldest vineyards are planted to bush vines
Grape(s) in Lodi AVA
a wealth of varieties can ripen and yet maintain a degree of freshness
Well known for Zin, w/ some vines >100yr old (sandy soils = no phylloxera in some areas of AVA)
Rhône and S of FR varieties — Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, Viognier, Picpoul
BDX — CS, Merlot, SB
Spain — Tempranillo, Graciano, Albariño
POR — Touriga Naçional, Tinta Cão
GER — Riesling, Gewürztraminer
IT — Barbera, Aglianico
Describe Lodi Zin
M to full body
M to M+ acid
Ripe tannins and flavors of cherry, blueberry, blackberry
G to VG w/ some O
$ to $$$
Describe how grapes of Lodi are used
May be part of inexpensive CA blend made by one of CA’s large producers since the fruit is generally fairly low priced
May be used in wines made from grapes entirely from the AVA
The most expensive wines are often from single vineyards of old, dry-farmed bush vines
G to VG w/ some O
$ to $$$
Significant producers of Lodi
Michael David
Ravenswood
How many sub-AVAs does Lodi have?
Which is most well known for old vine Zin?
In 2006, Lodi divided into 7 sub-AVAs
The Mokelumne River AVA contains a majority of Lodi’s wineries as well as old Zin vines
What Lodi program is noteworthy?
Lodi Rules
The 1st sustainability program in CA
Over 1000 wineries currently certified in CA and elsewhere around the world
Around 1/5 of Lodi’s vineyards are sustainable
Describe the Clarksburg AVA
Location and climatic conditions
Main grapes
SW of Sacramento
Proximity to Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta —> shares similar climate to Lodi w/ hot days moderated by afternoon breezes
Most known for CB and PS
Also large plantings of Chard, PG, SB, Viognier
Majority of grapes end up in CA blends
Describe the Sierra Foothills
Location
General history of growing in the region
A region and AVA located 160km (100mi) E of SF in the W foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range
Vineyards originally est’d in mid-to late 1800s during CA Gold Rush
Vine cuttings from Euro immigrants turned prospectors
Much was abandoned during Prohibition, but grew again in 1960s
Describe the Sierra Foothills AVA
Relative size
Where are most plantings?
vast area, covering just over 1MM ha and encompassing multiple counties as well as a few smaller AVAs
Majority of plantings are in Amador County’s California Shenandoah Valley AVA and Fiddletown AVA, and in the El Dorado AVA in El Dorado County
Describe the climatic conditions in Sierra Foothills AVA
Mitigating factor(s)
Daytime temps are hot — up to 35-40C/ 95-104F
But, cool air descends from the mountains at night giving high diurnal range
Planting altitude also helps manage sugar levels
~600m in Amador County and 1000m in El Dorado AVA
Sierra Foothills soils? Implications?
predominant soil type is sandy clay loam from decomposed granite
Retains sufficient water to allow for dry farming
What is Sierra Foothills most well-known for?
Old Vine Zin
Some vines considerably over 100 yr old
Grape(s) of Sierra Foothills
Most known for old-vine zin
A range of Rhône varieties: Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne, Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah
IT: Barbera, Sangiovese, PG, Aglianico
Spanish: Verdelho, Tempranillo
Describe the South Coast AVA
Location and implications
extends S from S of LA to the border w/ Mexico
Includes a # of sub-AVAs
Many vineyards planted in areas exposed to breezes from Pacific, though some rely on altitude for temp relief as they are generally at low latitude
What challenges does the South Coast AVA face?
After Prohibition, vineyard land was overtaken by food crops, housing, and urban sprawl in general
Pierce’s disease spread through the area in the 1990s
What has been the result of Pierce’s Disease spreading in South Coast AVA
while it can decimate vineyards, it can allow producers to reconsider choice of varieties, rootstocks and clones when replanting, w/ a focus on quality
Grape(s) in the South Coast AVA
- Chardonnay, CS, Zin and CB are among the most planted
