Lime Kiln Valley AVA
Lime Kiln Valley AVA encompasses a small inland valley nested within Cienega Valley. warm dry days moderated by elevation and nighttime cooling, calcareous soils and limestone-bearing formations, and varied exposures shape old-vine Mourvèdre and robust Mediterranean red wines.
Overview
Lime Kiln Valley AVA occupies a small inland valley nested within Cienega Valley. Its vineyards vary by elevation, slope, and distance from marine influence. Warm dry days moderated by elevation and nighttime cooling guide ripening, while calcareous soils and limestone-bearing formations influence drainage and vigor. Its clearest wine identity is old-vine Mourvèdre and robust Mediterranean red wines; linked vineyards and nested areas provide deeper specificity.
Geography & Climate
The AVA encompasses a small inland valley nested within Cienega Valley, with slopes, elevations, and exposures creating important variation.
Soils
Calcareous soils and limestone-bearing formations influence water retention, drainage, rooting depth, and vigor.
Wine Styles
The area is best represented by old-vine Mourvèdre and robust Mediterranean red wines.