Talking Points

Amber Knowles Vineyard, Kelseyville, CA

The Red Hills appellation lies along the southwestern shores of Clear Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in California. Designated Lake County's newest AVA in September 2004, Red Hills sits at the foot of the ancient volcano Mount Konocti, and extends from Big Valley on the west to Excelsior Valley on the east. On its southern edge, Red Hills is bounded by the high volcanic peaks of the Mayacamas Mountains. The rolling volcanic terrain of the region is in dramatic contrast to the wider valleys and higher mountains of the surrounding viticultural areas of Lake County.

The Red Hills District is located entirely within the larger Clear Lake AVA, which fully surrounds Clear Lake and in turn lies entirely within the North Coast AVA. Red Hills is considered a sub-appellation of both the Clear Lake and North Coast AVAs. Of the 31,250 acres or 49 square miles in the Red Hills District, approximately 3,000 acres are currently planted to wine grapes. We estimate that an additional 3,000 to 5,000 acres are plantable.

Over 90% of the soils in Red Hills are of volcanic origin from neighboring Mount Konocti, producing well-drained earth that is rich in black obsidian and gravel content, and strikingly red in color. Three general soil types predominate: Glenview-Bottlerock-Arrowhead, Konocti-Benridge, and Collayomi-Aiken. The shallow depth and rich mineral content of the soils create an ideal environment for growing Cabernet Sauvignon and other premium grapes.

In contrast to the more rugged topography found throughout most of Lake County, Red Hills is an area of gently sloping, rolling terrain, with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 3,000 feet above sea level. The cooling afternoon breezes found at these moderate elevations contribute to the favorable growing conditions of the region.

The Red Hills appellation benefits from a unique diurnal temperature pattern, with hot days tempered by afternoon winds that can cool nighttime temperatures by as much as 50 degrees. During the growing season daytime temperatures easily reach 90 degrees and above, but cool down each afternoon from breezes created by the sloping elevation changes around Mount Konocti and offshore winds from Clear Lake. The cool nights help preserve the acidity of the grapes and slow the ripening process, enhancing the flavor and complexity of the product.

Red Hills lies within the Region III Climatic region, but is not impacted by coastal fog and various marine effects commonly experienced by other growing regions within the North Coast AVA. Average rainfall in the area ranges from 25 to 40 inches per year.

Our Red Hills District growers are well respected for their commitment to grape quality and modern growing technology. They've built a solid reputation for using contemporary materials and techniques that are a direct outgrowth of the knowledge and experience they gained in other growing regions. Notable vineyards in the area include Bartolucci, Beckstoffer, Beringer Blass, Kendall-Jackson, Roumiguiere, Rolling Knolls, and Snows Lake Vineyards. All of these growers are leaders in developing and using sustainable winegrowing methods.

Most of our growers were attracted to the Red Hills District because of its ideal conditions for growing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes - rich, shallow volcanic soils that produce compact berries with powerful flavor. Wines produced from the local harvest tend to be big and bold, with complex fruity flavors that hint of wild berries, blackberries, cherries and spice. The trace minerals apparent in the volcanic soils lend earthy or flinty notes that add complexity to the product. Additional red varietals grown in the area include Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Petite Verdot, Barbera and Sangiovese. The area is also known for its premium Sauvignon Blanc grapes, though they are produced on a relatively small scale.