Red Hills Lake County AVA

Red Hills occupies the rugged eastern edge of Lake County, directly adjacent to the volcanic Mount Konocti. The region's defining characteristic is its high elevation and volcanic geology—bedrock composed primarily of Quaternary basalt and older Tertiary rhyolite creates naturally stressed vines that produce concentrated, mineral-driven wines. Diurnal temperature variation exceeds 40°F between harvest days and cool nights, allowing grapes to achieve full physiological ripeness while retaining natural acidity and fresh aromatics.

• Elevation 1,200–2,600 feet with south-facing slopes maximizing sun exposure
• Volcanic soils with exceptional drainage and naturally low nutrient levels
• Cool nights preserve acidity; warm days ripen phenolics fully
• Low annual rainfall (28–35") creates naturally concentrated fruit without irrigation stress

Wine production in Red Hills began in earnest during the 1970s when pioneering growers recognized the region's potential for premium Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah. However, Red Hills remained in Lake County's shadow until 2011 when the AVA designation formally recognized the area's terroir distinctiveness. This recent elevation has created a youthful, entrepreneurial energy—many current producers represent second-generation family wineries or newer artisanal projects seeking cooler-climate alternatives to Napa's established regions.

• Modern viticulture began 1970s; AVA established 2011
• Lake County's volcanic heritage provided geological foundation for premium winegrowing
• Petite Sirah rediscovery made Red Hills a contemporary hotspot for this undervalued varietal
• Recent appellation status attracts quality-focused producers seeking emerging, undiscovered terroir

Cabernet Sauvignon dominates Red Hills, representing approximately 35–40% of plantings, and expresses remarkable structure and mineral character from the volcanic soils. Petite Sirah thrives here at an exceptional level, showing deep color, peppery spice, and tannins that age gracefully for 15–25 years. Zinfandel, Merlot, and Petit Verdot round out the portfolio, while emerging cool-climate plantings of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay demonstrate the region's versatility. Red Hills wines characteristically display lifted aromatics, fine-grained tannins, and vibrant acidity unusual for their alcohol levels (typically 13.5–14.5%).

• Cabernet Sauvignon: structured, mineral-forward, age-worthy 15–20+ years
• Petite Sirah: 18% of plantings; deep color, peppery spice, exceptional length
• Zinfandel & Merlot provide secondary depth; Petit Verdot gaining recognition
• Cool-climate signatures: lifted aromatics, natural acidity, refined tannin structure

Gregory Graham Wines produces a diverse portfolio including Syrah, Grenache, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Chardonnay from its Crimson Hill estate vineyard in the Red Hills AVA, demonstrating the region's versatility across multiple varietals. Obsidian Ridge, Fore Family Vineyards, and Boatique Winery demonstrate the region's producer diversity. Many Red Hills producers emphasize organic and biodynamic viticulture, reflecting the region's environmental consciousness.

• Gregory Graham Wines: diverse estate portfolio from Crimson Hill vineyard including Syrah, Grenache, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and white varietals
• Obsidian Ridge, Fore Family Vineyards, Boatique Winery represent the region's producer diversity
• Approximately 45 bonded wineries with farm-to-table tasting rooms increasingly common

Red Hills Lake County AVA was officially established October 14, 2011 (Federal Register 76 FR 63486), encompassing 4,835 acres within Lake County's boundaries. The appellation encompasses the volcanic highlands east of Clear Lake, with defined elevation floors ensuring terroir consistency. Federal regulations require minimum 85% of grapes originate from the AVA for label designation; many premium Red Hills producers exceed this requirement with 100% estate fruit. The AVA's recent establishment means wine regulations remain relatively flexible compared to older California regions, encouraging innovation while maintaining quality standards.

• Established October 14, 2011; encompasses 4,835 acres
• 85% minimum fruit from AVA for label appellation; many producers use 100% estate grapes
• Elevation requirements (1,200+ feet) built into geographic boundaries
• Younger appellation allows flexible production practices while maintaining terroir focus

Red Hills offers intimate, uncrowded wine experiences compared to Napa Valley, with most tasting rooms accommodating visitors by appointment or walk-in basis. The region's rural character preserves agricultural heritage while welcoming wine tourists seeking personalized encounters with winemakers. Local attractions include Clear Lake's recreational activities, Mount Konocti hiking trails, and seasonal farmers markets showcasing Lake County produce. The Red Hills Wine Alliance actively promotes regional education through tastings and events, making it an emerging destination for wine educators and serious collectors alike.

• Appointment-preferred tasting rooms offer intimate, personalized experiences
• Mount Konocti provides hiking access to understand regional geology firsthand
• Clear Lake recreational activities complement wine tourism
• Red Hills Wine Alliance hosts seasonal events; less crowded than established regions