Stretching from sea level to 3,100 feet elevation in western Los Angeles County, the Malibu Coast AVA presents a complex web of small sites strewn across very rugged coastal mountains. Marine influence is obvious as the ocean can be seen from many sectors. This is no new comer to viticulture in California as the first vineyard plants can be dated back to 1824. At mid century Los Angeles County was the dominant wine producer in California and the area of the now Malibu Coast AVA was a contributing part. Prohibition eliminated viticulture from this region and it only restarted in the early mid 1980's. Just 210 acres are now planted in 2014 by a cadre of 48 commercial growers. Growers are still gaining working knowdlege of the unique climate which can range from desert drought to major rainfalls. Cabernet Sauvignon is the primary varietal with Syrah, Merlot and Chardonnay being in background support. To date most wines of the region have been labeled as either California or Los Angeles County.