Pacheco Pass AVA

Pacheco Pass AVA

The Pacheco Pass American Viticultural Area (AVA) is a designated wine grape-growing region in California's Central Coast region. The AVA is located in the southern part of Santa Clara County and the northern part of San Benito County. The Pacheco Pass AVA is named after the Pacheco Pass, a mountain pass that runs through the area.

History

The Pacheco Pass AVA was established by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) in 1984. The region has a long history of viticulture, with the first vineyards planted in the late 19th century. The AVA is known for its unique microclimate, which is influenced by the cooling effects of the Pacific Ocean and the elevation of the Pacheco Pass.

Geography and Climate

The Pacheco Pass AVA is located in the Diablo Range, a part of the larger California Coast Ranges. The region's climate is characterized by warm days and cool nights, with a significant diurnal temperature variation. This climate is ideal for growing a variety of wine grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel.

Viticulture

Viticulture in the Pacheco Pass AVA is influenced by the region's unique geography and climate. The mountainous terrain and the cool maritime influence create a diverse range of microclimates within the AVA, allowing for the cultivation of a wide variety of wine grape varieties. The region's well-drained, rocky soils also contribute to the high quality of the grapes grown here.

Wineries

There are several wineries located within the Pacheco Pass AVA, including Creekview Vineyards, DeRose Vineyards, and Fortino Winery. These wineries produce a range of wines, from robust reds to crisp whites, reflecting the diversity of the grape varieties grown in the region.

See Also

• List of American Viticultural Areas
• California wine
• Santa Clara Valley AVA
• San Benito AVA

External Links

• TTB official site
• Wine Institute
• California Wines

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