Napa Valley
One of the most coveted wine growing regions, Napa Valley is truly a world class gem. A valley no larger than 1/8th the size of Bordeaux (48km x 8km), Napa's terroir is perfectly suited for producing premium Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varieties. The western side of the Valley is formed by the Mayacamas Mountain range, which blocks the cool ocean breeze from the Pacific Ocean and the eastern side is formed by volcanic soils of the Vaca Mountains. The valley forms a perfect growing region for warm to hot days and cool and calm nights, producing bold, concentrated, yet elegant wines. Winemaking has been around here since the 1860's and some of today's most recognized wineries call this place home. With 16 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) within this small area of land, there are very diverse microclimates, all distinct, but with one common trait; greatness.
Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley AVA
Nestled between the southernmost area of the Napa Valley, Los Carneros and famous Yountville AVA and Stags Leap District AVA to the north, Oak Knoll District AVA is at the valley floor of the Napa Valley. While this region can get warm, the San Pablo Bay to the south brings in cool ocean breeze that keeps the temperature from getting too hot. The soil is mostly alluvial soil, so the region enjoys complex combinations of different soil types such as volcanic soil with some gravel and stones. Because of this unique terroir, Bordeaux varietals, such as Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots from this area possess a much more elegancy than power when compared to other Napa Valley AVAs.
St. Helena AVA
One of the most iconic regions within the Napa Valley, St. Helena AVA has played an integral part in the history of Napa winemaking. St. Helena AVA is one of the northernmost regions in Napa where the valley mountains narrow, creating an hourglass landscape. This geography along with its distance from any cool ocean breezes creates a very warm climate, perfect for powerful and weighty Bordeaux varietals such as the famous Cabernet Sauvignon as well as Cabernet Franc and Merlot. In fact, St. Helena on average has the highest temperature in all of the Napa Valley!