What is Lake County known for?

North of Napa and Sonoma around Clear Lake, California's Lake County is known for vibrant Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon grown at high elevation in some of the cleanest air in the country.

What makes its terroir distinctive?

High elevation, intense sunlight, volcanic soils around the Mount Konocti area, and cool nights produce wines with bright fruit and firm structure.

What is the wine scene like?

Lake County is more rural and affordable than its famous neighbors, with welcoming, down-to-earth wineries around Clear Lake.

When is the best time to visit Lake County?

Spring and fall are the most comfortable, with harvest bringing the liveliest energy.

Lake County Wine Country Guide

About Lake County Wine Country

Lake County sits at 1,300 to 3,600 feet elevation in the Mayacamas Mountains north of Napa Valley, high enough for significant temperature extremes, far enough from tourist infrastructure to remain genuinely undiscovered despite producing wines that hold their own against far more famous neighbors.

The Red Hills Lake County sub-AVA, on volcanic soils above Clear Lake, is the most exciting sub-region. The red volcanic rocky soils and high elevation combine to produce Cabernet Sauvignon of real structure and concentration at prices that would embarrass comparable Napa Valley bottlings. Sauvignon Blanc also excels here, with an electric crispness that reflects the high-altitude environment.

Clear Lake itself, California's largest natural lake, moderates temperatures and provides a scenic backdrop for wine tourism. The region is developing genuine tourist infrastructure, though it remains far less visited than its wine quality warrants.