When California wine is mentioned, it’s natural to immediately think of Napa and Sonoma. But these household names aren’t the only areas in the state burgeoning with vines. California is snaked over with grapes that wind through hidden valleys and Sierra cliffsides. The dry-sounding initialism AVA — or American Viticultural Area — refers to a designated wine-growing region, meaning both the vineyards and their geographical vicinity. There are dozens of these underdog wine-growing regions in parts of California that produce wine that very few people know about. And the best part is that all these wineries offer plenty of secret outdoor treasures and activities too, from hiking to boating to quirky local color.
This prestigious (yet rarely mentioned) AVA is found along the hillside terraces of the Santa Lucia Range, overlooking the Salinas Valley. Benefiting from the morning sun followed by afternoon breezes funneling in from Monterey Bay, the Santa Lucia Highlands are home to some of California’s most exceptional Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs.
Visit: Hahn Family Wines, Manzoni Estate Vineyard, Pessagno
More adventure can be found 15 minutes east at Pinnacles National Park. Formed by volcanic explosions and landslides, Pinnacles is filled with geologic wonders, caves and wildlife. Enjoy a scenic hike or a relaxing picnic against a surreal backdrop of jagged monoliths. Made official in 2013, our country’s newest national park is well worth the stopover.
Nestled in the southern tip of San Luis Obispo County, Edna Valley is renowned for high-quality Chardonnays, Viogniers, Pinot Noirs and Syrahs. With its coastal proximity, the region experiences a cooler maritime climate than its inland neighbors, resulting in some of the most balanced and elegant wines in California.
Visit: Claiborne & Churchill, Edna Valley Vineyard, Talley Vineyards
Then head north to downtown SLO for some romantic riverfront dining. If you’re feeling whimsical, stay at the famous Madonna Inn, known for its eccentrically themed rooms (like the Caveman Room). Or take a drive to Pismo Beach for some clams and a gorgeous sunset on the cliffs. The SeaCrest Hotel offers excellent rates on ocean-view rooms.
In the northwestern foothills of the Sierras sits the picturesque Shenandoah Valley. Grown in volcanic soils up to 2,000 feet in elevation, the vines get sun exposure by day and chilly mountain breezes by night, which ensures a full ripening while maintaining acidity. In addition to Zinfandel, the region also produces some of California’s finest examples of Sangiovese and Barbera.
Visit: Renwood Winery, Helwig Winery, Andis Wines
Learn about the region’s heritage by visiting the quaint community of Fiddletown, an old gold-mining town built in the 1850s. Stop by the library to arrange a guided walking tour. During summertime, plan an evening at Scofield’s Cowboy Camp for live Western music and cowboy poetry under the stars.
A very long (but beautiful) drive up north leads you to the mountainous Willow Creek AVA. Split between the border of Humboldt and Trinity Counties, it’s one of California’s smallest and northernmost wine-growing regions. Its unique wines are a lesser-known treasure and include Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and more.
Visit: Trinity River Vineyards, Sentinel Winery
With its unbeatable location, you can spend the weekend exploring the mystifying forests of Redwood National and State Parks. Spend some time among the world’s largest and oldest trees, or get lost in the incredible scenery of Prairie Creek and Fern Valley. Afterward, be sure to enjoy the eerie, towering redwoods on the Avenue of the Giants.
Just north of Napa Valley, Lake County AVA is made up of several subregions surrounding Clear Lake. It offers a wide spectrum of terroir, from alluvial lakeside vineyards to volcanic hillsides at 2,600 feet. Although recognized for Sauvignon Blanc, various reds, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec, are also produced here. And despite the recent wildfires, the region’s wineries have persevered and are back up and running.
Visit: Brassfield Estate Winery, Beaver Creek Vineyards, Langtry Estate
Hang around for some watersports and fishing, or take a canoe out and bask in the calming landscapes. Given that the area has some of the country’s cleanest air and best bird-watching opportunities, renting a lake house is the perfect way to unwind after a busy week.
