Big Valley District - Lake County

Big Valley District - Lake County received its designation as an AVA in 2013. Situated on 11,000 acres, Big Valley Lake County is a sub-appellation of the Lake County AVA. Located to the west of Clear Lake, the terrain of Big Valley is mostly flat and contains alluvial clay soils from the lake and volcanic soils eroded from Mt. Konocti. Due to its proximity to the water table, the soil in Big Valley is poor draining and the vines run the risk of flooding and becoming supersaturated with water. Clear Lake serves as a major influencer in the region, moderating temperatures creating the cooler climate. During the height of the growing season, cool breezes from the lake help to cool the vineyards during the warm afternoon, slowing the ripening process and ensuring grapes achieve good acidity balance. The soil and temperature of Big Valley Lake County make the region perfect for Sauvignon Blanc production.