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Since 1966, wine grapes have been grown in the area. In addition to growing Chardonnay, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc, recently, wineries have begun growing Viognier, Syrah, and Pinot Gris. The Temecula Valley's warmer climate is particularly well-suited to Rhône varieties, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel.
A Pinot grigio from the Central Coast AVA. County names in the United States automatically qualify as legal appellations of origin for wine produced from grapes grown in that county and do not require registration with the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) .
Pinot noir may also be blended with other grapes in inexpensive varietal wines, where the Pinot noir percentage is high enough for a varietal labeling but is not 100% (75% in the United States, 85% in the European Union). Commonly a heavier grape like Syrah is used to add color and body, resulting in a wine rather unlike pure Pinot noir wines.
The boundary of the North Coast AVA encompasses many smaller wine appellations, which generally have higher consumer appeal and therefore higher commercial value. Wine produced primarily from grapes grown in any one of these appellations will likely carry that appellation on its bottle label rather than the North Coast AVA designation.
Pinot Noir - grown for both sparkling and still wine production - is the dominant varietal for the region. A 2015 vineyard census determined that 87 of 91 vineyard properties in the region grow Pinot Noir. [2] [15] [16] The Anderson Valley extends about 10 miles (16 km) from end to end and contains over 20 different types of alluvial soils. [13]
In Monterey County, Chardonnay is the primary grape as it comprises 40% of total vine acreage. Chardonnay grapes from Monterey County have become prized by winemakers throughout the state. Currently, the northern areas of the county mainly cultivate Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Pinot Blanc due to the cooler weather.
The Lake Skinner recreational area includes 1,400 acres (5.7 km 2) of surface water and 300 acres (1.2 km 2) of lakeside parkland, [5] features 158 RV sites and 300 developed campsites, [6] and is the site of the annual Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival [5] and the Solar Cup competition.
When combined with the rocky nature of the area, the Sta. Rita Hills area is well-suited for the growing of Pinot noir grapes. The region is best known for its Chardonnay, Pinot noir, and Syrah varietal wines. From its designation in 2001 through 2005, the wine appellation was officially named Santa Rita Hills AVA. [20]