High Valley AVA
High Valley AVA encompasses an east–west mountain valley and surrounding ridges above Clear Lake. high elevation, cool temperatures, and persistent lake and coastal breezes, alluvium on the floor and red volcanic soils, sand, gravel, and tephra on slopes, and varied exposures shape balanced Cabernet varieties, Petite Sirah, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Overview
High Valley AVA occupies an east–west mountain valley and surrounding ridges above Clear Lake. Its vineyards vary by elevation, slope, and exposure, producing meaningful local differences. High elevation, cool temperatures, and persistent lake and coastal breezes guide ripening, while alluvium on the floor and red volcanic soils, sand, gravel, and tephra on slopes influence drainage and vigor. Its clearest wine identity is balanced Cabernet varieties, Petite Sirah, and Sauvignon Blanc; linked vineyards and producers provide deeper specificity.
Geography & Climate
The AVA encompasses an east–west mountain valley and surrounding ridges above Clear Lake, with slopes, elevations, and exposures creating important variation.
Soils
Alluvium on the floor and red volcanic soils, sand, gravel, and tephra on slopes influence water retention, drainage, rooting depth, and vigor.
Wine Styles
The area is best represented by balanced Cabernet varieties, Petite Sirah, and Sauvignon Blanc.