St. Helena AVA

St. Helena AVA

The St. Helena AVA is an American Viticultural Area located within Napa Valley AVA. It is recognized for its unique climate and soil conditions, which are ideal for the cultivation of a variety of grape types.

History

The St. Helena AVA was established in 1995, making it one of the younger AVAs within the Napa Valley. Despite its relatively recent establishment, the area has a rich history of viticulture dating back to the 19th century.

Geography and Climate

The St. Helena AVA is located in the northern part of the Napa Valley, surrounding the town of St. Helena. The AVA spans approximately 9,000 acres, with about 6,800 acres planted with vines.

The region is known for its warm, dry climate, which is influenced by its proximity to the Mayacamas Mountains. The mountains shield the area from the cooling effects of the Pacific Ocean, resulting in higher average temperatures compared to other parts of the Napa Valley.

Viticulture

The St. Helena AVA is renowned for its diverse soil types, which include alluvial, volcanic, and sedimentary soils. These varied soil types, combined with the region's warm climate, make it an ideal location for growing a variety of grape types.

The most widely planted grape in the St. Helena AVA is Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by Merlot, Zinfandel, and Sauvignon Blanc. The region is also known for producing high-quality Syrah, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc.

Wineries

There are numerous wineries located within the St. Helena AVA, many of which are family-owned and operated. These wineries are known for producing a range of wines, from bold, full-bodied reds to crisp, refreshing whites.

See Also

• List of American Viticultural Areas
• Napa Valley Wine
• California Wine