Shenandoah Valley AVA

Shenandoah Valley AVA

The Shenandoah Valley AVA is an American Viticultural Area located in the Shenandoah Valley, which is situated in both Virginia and West Virginia in the United States. This wine region is one of the oldest and most historically significant in the United States, with a rich history dating back to the 18th century.

History

The Shenandoah Valley AVA was established in 1982, making it one of the earliest designated wine regions in the United States. The region's wine history, however, dates back to the 18th century when early settlers began cultivating grapes. The Shenandoah Valley's fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for grape cultivation and wine production.

Geography and Climate

The Shenandoah Valley AVA spans a large area of the Shenandoah Valley, covering parts of eight counties in Virginia and two in West Virginia. The region is characterized by its fertile, limestone-rich soil and a unique climate that is ideal for growing a variety of grape types. The valley's climate is significantly cooler and drier than the surrounding areas, which helps to reduce the risk of grape diseases and allows for a longer growing season.

Viticulture

The Shenandoah Valley AVA is known for its diverse range of grape varieties. The region's unique climate and soil conditions allow for the cultivation of both Vitis vinifera and Vitis labrusca grape varieties, as well as several hybrid varieties. Some of the most commonly grown grape types in the region include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Norton.

Wineries and Wines

There are numerous wineries located within the Shenandoah Valley AVA, many of which have gained recognition for their high-quality wines. The region is particularly known for its robust red wines and crisp white wines. Some of the most notable wineries in the Shenandoah Valley AVA include Breaux Vineyards, Cave Ridge Vineyard, and Shenandoah Vineyards.

See Also

• List of American Viticultural Areas
• Virginia wine
• West Virginia wine

References

<references />

External Links

• Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail
• Shenandoah Valley on Virginia Wine website
• Shenandoah Valley on West Virginia Wine website

• 
  Shenandoah Valley AVA