Wild Horse Valley AVA
Wild Horse Valley is an American Viticultural Area whose borders overlap both Napa and Solano Counties, California and is partially contained within the Napa Valley AVA. It was established on November 30, 1988, by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Treasury after reviewing the petition submitted by John Newmeyer of
Napa and four other interested persons proposing the establishment of the viticultural area named "Wild Horse Valley."
The appellation's southerly location results in more hours of sunshine than other locations in Napa Valley or nearby Green Valley. The proximity to San Pablo Bay results in a cooler climate, making Wild Horse Valley attractive for the cultivation of grapes like Pinot noir.
Geography and climate
Wild Horse Valley AVA features two distinct sub-regions. To the west, the area is cooled by San Pablo Bay, although the elevation keeps the area above the fogline. The eastern half, being protected by the slope of the ground, is much warmer. The soil type is generally volcanic throughout the entire AVA.History
Grapes were first planted in the area in the 1881. The current vineyard plantings date back to 1980, with commercial production starting in 1985.Wild Horse Vineyard
The largest vineyard in the Wild Horse Valley AVA was the Wild Horse Vineyard of Napa Valley.The recent wildfires destroyed the Wild Horse Valley vineyards.