An appellation is a geographical area recognized for a distinctive combination of soil, climate, and identifiable regional wine character. The word appellation comes from the French Appellation d'Origine Controlee laws, which are laws meant to ensure quality within specific regions of France. These same principles have been used to create American Viticultural Areas (AVA) in the United States.

Appellations

Moon Mountain AVA

1,500 vineyard acres

11 wineries

Top Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon

Towering above the eastside of Sonoma Valley in the Mayacamas range is Moon Mountain AVA. The designation helps explain the differences between valley- and mountain-grown grapes, as well as how farming high elevations can be challenging, yet rewarding. Some of the oldest Cabernet Sauvignon vines in the state are grown in this region.