Lake County – The Mountains of California’s North Coast

Why have wines from Lake County garnered so much praise and respect? It’s simple: air, land, sun, water – and people.

The purest air in California.

Among the highest elevations, with most vineyards planted above 1,500’ and some as high as 3,000’ in elevation.

Intense sun, with up to 10% more ultraviolet light than in regions at or near sea level, leading to thicker skins and a higher concentration of phenolics (the flavor components in wine).

Colder winters and low humidity, creating the conditions for vines to thrive while producing exceptionally complex flavors.

And of course, the people. Lake County winegrape growers combine the latest technologies with traditional viticultural practices, emphasizing long-term sustainability for the environment and the region. With its innovative Master Vigneron Academy™ – the first program of its kind anywhere in the US – Lake County Winegrape Commission provides the region’s professional vineyard workforce with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to produce grapes for wines of the very highest quality.

Read more about the story of Lake County Rising.