North Coast - Solano County

Question 1

How many AVA’s and Wineries

Answer 1

4 AVA
20+ Wineries

Even though it neighbors Napa County, Solano County is little known as a wine region. Solano County’s climate is similar to that of southern Napa Valley, and its soils less diverse and, perhaps, less well suited to Cabernet Sauvignon. Solano County is largely an under-the-radar blending partner for wines from other North Coast AVAs.

That said there are good wines to be had bearing Solano County’s AVA designations, including several interesting grape varieties, such as Petite Sirah and a surprising amount of Teroldego. It’s also a scenic and laid-back place to taste wine, and easily accessible from Interstate 80.

Question 2

KEY VARIETIES

Answer 2

Chardonnay 26%,
Pinot Noir 18%,
Pinot Gris 12%,
Cabernet Sauvignon 10%,
Petite Sirah 7%,
Merlot 4%

Question 3

CLIMATE

Answer 3

Warm-summer Mediterranean, Winkler-Amerine Heat Summation Region III

The climate in Solano County is generally on the cool side of Winkler-Amerine Region III and some particular areas may be even cooler. Therefore, top grape varieties are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Gris. It also makes nicely balanced Syrah. Suisun Valley, the warmest of the AVAs, prides itself on Petite Sirah. The price of grapes makes the region advantageous for producers looking to make affordable wine.

Question 4

KEY SOIL TYPES

Answer 4

Alluvial

Most of Solano County is quite flat. There are significant wetlands too, including the San Francisco Bay National Estuarine Research zone and the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area. But the majority of Solano County vineyards are tucked up against Napa Valley, between the southern end of the St. George and Vaca Ranges. That area borders Stags Leap District in the north and Coombsville in the west.

Question 5

Sub AVA’s

Answer 5

Clarksburg AVA
Solano County Green Valley AVA - 1982
Suisun Valley AVA - 1982
Wild Horse Valley - 1988 (shared with Napa County)