Hillside Vines, Elevated Wines
LOCATION
Inland from the Pacific. At the eastern edge of Sonoma County. Embracing the Mayacamas Mountains. Here, winding passes and forested landscapes give way to the breathtaking vineyards of Fountaingrove. This district . . . this hidden gem, yields a harvest destined to become age-worthy wines.
Fountaingrove District AVA was approved by the TTB in March, 2015. This designation formally recognizes the unique terroir of the region, at the same time filling the AVA void that existed between Chalk Hill and Knight’s Valley to the north, Sonoma Valley to the south, Russian River to the west, and Napa’s Diamond Mountain and Spring Mountain to the east.
Click the image above for an interactive map featuring Fountaingrove vineyards and wineries.
VARIETALS
Fountaingrove District AVA is comprised of 38,000 acres, about 600 of which are planted to grapes. Vineyards are typically small, ranging from less than 1 acre to 57 acres, with a median size of 12 acres. Almost all are family-owned. Cabernet Sauvignon is the primary varietal planted, but other Bordeaux varietals (predominantly Cabernet Franc and Merlot) and Rhone varietals (especially Syrah, Viognier and Petite Sirah) are also prevalent. In certain microclimates, Zinfandel, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc also flourish.
TERROIR
Fountaingrove District is distinguished by three key aspects of terroir: soil composition, climate and elevation.
Our soils are predominantly Sonoma Volcanics, the result of an eruption of the now-dormant Mount Saint Helena on the northern Sonoma-Napa County border more than 3 million years ago. This same eruption resulted in the Petrified Forest and Old Faithful Geyser in Calistoga. The volcanic ash produced a variety of excellent, not overly rich, well-drained soils perfectly suited for growing high-quality grapes.... Read More
ABOUT US
The Fountaingrove District AVA is home to only a few commercial wineries; most growers sell their fruit to wineries located outside the boundaries of the AVA.
We are proud of the many award-winning wines produced with Fountaingrove District grapes.
You are cordially invited to explore Fountaingrove District, tour its vineyards, visit its wineries and savor its incredible wines.