The North Coast AVA is a major American Viticultural Area in California that includes six key wine-growing counties north of San Francisco: Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, Sonoma, and Solano. With more than 700 wineries and approximately 3 million acres of vineyards, it is one of the most diverse wine regions in the United States. Its size allows for a wide variety of soils, microclimates, and elevations, shaped in part by the Vaca Range, Mayacamas Mountains, Pacific Ocean and San Pablo Bay. The region experiences a temperate Mediterranean climate, but conditions shift dramatically depending on location. Near the coast, cool ocean breezes and fog create ideal conditions for varieties like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Inland areas, which are warmer and drier, are better suited for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Other prominent grape varieties include Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, Syrah, and Riesling. Because the AVA covers multiple counties, wines labeled “North Coast” can blend grapes from any of these regions, resulting in a broad range of styles of white, red, rosé and sparkling wines.
Author: Maytte Rivera
