Napa County

Napa Valley, comprising most of Napa County, is flanked by two mountain ranges formed by geological events that took place over a 60-million-year history—the Vaca Mountains to the east and the majestic Mayacamas to the west, adjacent to Sonoma County.  More than 30 different soil types have been identified within the valley’s distinct microclimates and terrains.  Mt. St. Helena (4,343 ft.) stands sentry at the northern end of the appellation near Calistoga, the warmest locale in the region.  Thirty miles south, the valley opens to San Pablo Bay, an interconnecting arm of the San Francisco Bay system and the valley’s “air conditioner,” providing a cooling marine influence during the long summer growing season.

Established in 1981, the Napa Valley AVA encompasses almost the entire county of Napa and is home to more than 400 wineries.  Fourteen other AVAs lie within Napa Valley, with 45,000 planted vineyard acres among them; Cabernet Sauvignon rules with a total of 18,700 acres, while Chardonnay is the most widely planted white wine variety with 6,900 acres.  Napa may be the most widely recognized AVA, but historically the region crushes only about four percent of the wine tonnage for California.

Napa Valley has become renowned worldwide for its celebrated vintners and wineries. The valley’s relatively small size—just 36 miles in length and five miles at its widest point–and its proximity to San Francisco offer a unique opportunity to indulge in a significant portion of the California wine scene over a short visit. Visitors may choose from interesting community events throughout the year, such as Auction Napa Valley, organized by the Napa Valley Vintners Association, held each June in the valley.  Be sure to check out our event planner before planning a visit to this highly popular destination.
http://www.napavintners.com