Recognized for its distinctive growing conditions, this lakeside area in southwestern Michigan became the state’s first appellation in 1981. Geographically, the AVA’s eastern boundary borders a state game reserve, with the remaining natural boundaries being Lake Michigan to the west, the Kalamazoo River to the north, and the Black River to the south. Fennville’s designation is based on its glacial outwash sandy soils and the moderating effects of Lake Michigan. Overall, Fennville has a relatively mild climate with less extreme seasonal temperature variations than inland areas. During the short 160-day growing season very few days exceed 90 F. Grower's success has been registered with a wide range of grape varieties, including Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Seyval for whites, and Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Chancellor and Chambourcin for reds.