Fennville AVA

Fennville AVA

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Official name
Other names
Type	American Viticultural Area
Year established	1981
Years of wine industry
Country	United States
Part of
Other regions in vicinity	Lake Michigan Shore AVA, Leelanau Peninsula AVA, Old Mission Peninsula AVA
Sub-regions
Location

The Fennville AVA is an American Viticultural Area located in the southwestern part of the state of Michigan, in the United States. Established in 1981, it was the first AVA to be designated in Michigan. The AVA is named after the town of Fennville, Michigan, which is situated within the boundaries of the viticultural area.

Geography and Climate

The Fennville AVA is located in Allegan County, Michigan, and is part of the larger Lake Michigan Shore AVA. It encompasses approximately 75,000 acres, although only about 75 acres are currently planted with vineyards. The region benefits from the moderating effects of Lake Michigan, which helps to create a favorable microclimate for grape growing. The climate is classified as continental, with cold winters and warm summers, which is suitable for growing a variety of cool-climate grape varieties.

Soil and Topography

The soils in the Fennville AVA are primarily sandy loam, which provides good drainage and is conducive to viticulture. The topography of the region is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, which help to protect the vines from harsh winds and provide a variety of microclimates within the AVA.

Grape Varieties

The Fennville AVA is known for producing high-quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling wines. Other grape varieties grown in the region include Vidal Blanc and Vignoles, which are often used to produce sweet and dessert wines. The cool climate of the region allows for the production of wines with high acidity and complex flavors.

Winemaking and Wineries

There are a few wineries located within the Fennville AVA, each producing a range of wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region. These wineries often focus on small-batch production and emphasize sustainable and organic farming practices. The wines from Fennville are known for their balance, elegance, and expression of the local terroir.

History

The Fennville AVA was established in 1981, making it the first AVA in Michigan. The region has a long history of agriculture, with grape growing and winemaking becoming increasingly important in recent decades. The establishment of the AVA helped to promote the region's wines and attract attention to Michigan as a wine-producing state.

Also see

• Lake Michigan Shore AVA
• Leelanau Peninsula AVA
• Old Mission Peninsula AVA
• American Viticultural Area
• Michigan wine