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10/01/2010

AVA Spotlight: Anderson Valley

Ask any Pinot Noir aficionado to name California’s top appellations for growing world-class Pinot Noir and Anderson Valley is sure to be on the list. In the last couple of decades this small north coast AVA has become home to some of the most highly respected and sought-after Pinot Noir vineyards in the state. But along the way Anderson Valley has also earned a reputation for growing fine Chardonnay, Alsatian varieties such as Gewurztraminer and White Riesling, as well as smaller amounts of Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc, thanks to its location in the larger appellation of Mendocino County, where rolling hills form diverse microclimates.

Encompassing the towns of Boonville, Philo and Navarro, Anderson Valley cuts laterally through a coastal mountain range; the western edge of the appellation is just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean. This geography allows fog and cool air to funnel in from the Pacific, and temperatures at night can be 40° to 50°F cooler than during the day. Another factor that sets Anderson Valley vineyards apart is elevation. The narrow valley, which follows the Navarro River, rises steeply to 2000 feet on either side, and many vines are planted on dramatic hillside and ridgeline sites.

The combination of elevation and cool climate significantly influences the way wine grapes develop here. Clusters mature over a long period of time, developing flavor and varietal character without over ripening. Cool temperatures enable growers to keep grape acids in line with sugar and flavor development, ideal for varietals such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It’s no surprise that Anderson Valley is home to some of California’s best-known sparkling wine houses!

Named after Walter Anderson who settled in the area with his three sons in the 1850’s, Anderson Valley was a virtual Eden in the early days, with abundant water, grassy meadows, and small and big game for hunting. Although evidence suggests that grapevines were planted in the area in the later 1800’s, the valley was better known for its apple orchards and forest products, and despite sporadic efforts in the early 1900’s it wasn’t until the 1960’s that any kind of lasting wine industry took hold. The exceptionally cool climate was in part to blame – it was hard to get the grapes ripe! But at last the persistence of a few early growers willing to experiment to see which varieties would grow best started to pay off in some stunning wines, and Anderson Valley earned its AVA status in 1983.

As surely as Anderson Valley has developed a reputation for fine wine grapes, it is also known as one of the most beautiful and satisfying wine destinations in California. Less than two hours north of San Francisco, the valley – which Travel & Leisure (10/09) has called a “rural paradise” -- offers visitors breathtaking vineyard views, picturesque towns, winding back roads, charming restaurants and laid back wine tasting rooms. 

The area is also home to several popular wine festivals, including the Annual Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival and the International Alsace Varietals Festival. So whether you’re looking to get away from the crowds or enjoy a glass of wine with like-minded wine lovers, you can find both in Anderson Valley. More information about visiting Anderson Valley and its growers and wineries can be found at www.avwines.com.

Photo Credit: Anderson Valley Winegrowers & Allan Green

Photo Credit: Anderson Valley Winegrowers