Clear Lake (AVA)
 Welcome | My Account | Sign Out
Subscribe to our newsletter
Bookmark and Share  


The Clear Lake appellation -- just north of Sonoma and Napa counties and east of Mendocino -- contains the largest body of fresh water in California. The lake acts as a temperature moderator and covers half the surface area of this viticultural region. Uniformly cooler than any northern California appellation, Clear Lake AVA has become well known for its Sauvignon Blanc in recent years. However, the lake also causes viticulturalists a good amount of stress as it has a tendency to flood during rainy seasons. Before Prohibition, this area had over 5,000 acres of vineyards and 36 wineries. Without brand recognition, none of them survived into the mid-20th century. Understandably, local winemakers wish to avoid a repeat of this phenomenon and therefore actively promote the appellation name on labels.

Current Feature

In the southern Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Georgia vineyards are small and few, yet the establishment of the Upper Hiwassee Highlands could bring much more.  [>] continue


Related Features


 

Alive & Well here


Syrah | Shiraz: During the Roman occupation of Gaul you rose to fame as a captive vine turned gladiator. Your legend  [>] continue

Recommendations

Quick Finds

Search the Clear Lake Wine List

 
select wine style:
select grape:
 

Featured Wines

WineSmith 2007 Pennyfarthing Merlot The wine you will encounter offers lush and generous fruit gently framed with toffee and espresso nuances from French oak.
buy wine $10.00

Buy Clear Lake wines
directly from these wineries

Advertisement



    Help us improve travel information to your favorite region...



Winery Sponsors

Winery sponsors of Appellation America’s coverage of the Clear Lake appellation.