North Coast - Lake County

Question 1

How many AVA’s and Winerys

Answer 1

8 AVA’s
30+ Wineries

In modern times, Lake County’s wine grape industry has largely played a support role to its neighbors – Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and Mendocino County – with Lake County grapes contributing richness and deep, fruity flavor to blends. More recently, however, Lake County has been making a concerted effort to develop its own identity in the wine world, focusing on high-quality, county- or AVA-designates, especially Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. These wines, together with the area’s high-altitude vistas, red volcanic soils, and colorful history, make Lake County a compelling destination for wine lovers.

Question 2

KEY VARIETIES

Answer 2

Cabernet Sauvignon 47%,
Sauvignon Blanc 21%,
Petite Sirah 7%,
Chardonnay 5%,
Zinfandel 4%,
Merlot 4%

Question 3

CLIMATE

Answer 3

Warm-summer Mediterranean (Csb)

Warm weather, clear air, and generous sunlight, are excellent for grape growing too. Robust, dark-skinned varieties thrive on the county’s slopes of red, volcanic soil. Sauvignon Blanc also loves the weather and works well in locations where the terrain is flatter and holds more water.

Question 4

KEY SOIL TYPES

Answer 4

Volcanic hillside soils, Sandstone/shale hillside soils, Alluvial terraces. Deep, alluvial deposits

Question 5

Sub AVA’s

Answer 5

Benmore Valley AVA
Big Valley District AVA
Clear Lake AVA
Guenoc Valley AVA
High Valley AVA
Kelsey Bench AVA
Red Hills, Lake County AVA

Question 6

What are the most widely planted grapes in Lake County?

Answer 6

Bordeaux varieites