Kelsey Bench–Lake County AVA

Kelsey Bench–Lake County AVA encompasses terraces rising from Big Valley toward the Mayacamas. warm days moderated by Clear Lake and large afternoon-to-night cooling, young volcanic soils grading into mineral-rich alluvial loam, and varied exposures shape Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Zinfandel.

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Overview

Kelsey Bench–Lake County AVA occupies terraces rising from Big Valley toward the Mayacamas. Its vineyards vary by elevation, slope, and exposure, producing meaningful local differences. Warm days moderated by Clear Lake and large afternoon-to-night cooling guide ripening, while young volcanic soils grading into mineral-rich alluvial loam influence drainage and vigor. Its clearest wine identity is Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Zinfandel; linked vineyards and producers provide deeper specificity.

Geography & Climate

The AVA encompasses terraces rising from Big Valley toward the Mayacamas, with slopes, elevations, and exposures creating important variation.

Soils

Young volcanic soils grading into mineral-rich alluvial loam influence water retention, drainage, rooting depth, and vigor.

Wine Styles

The area is best represented by Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Zinfandel.