Bell Mountain is located in the central Texas county of Gillespie. The appellation covers an area of about 5 square miles and contains approximately 70 acres of grapes. This AVA was the first to be designated in Texas (November 10th, 1986). The mountain itself rises to 2000 feet, with vineyards located on the south and southwest slopes. These elevations bring a cooling effect to the vineyards during the daylight hours, and even more so at night. The terrain of the area is Pedernales-Pontotoc – non-calcareous, sandy, loam soils with light sandy clay sub-soil and slightly acidic. Temperature fluctuations and light soils are substantial contributors to the quality Vinifera grape growing for which Bell Mountain is known.