As mentioned in previous posts, an AVA (American Viticultural Area) is a geographic designation for grape growing regions in the United States.  Areas typically have unique topographic and climatic conditions which can have an effect upon terroir.  These AVAs often have specific reputations, thereby, creating a desire upon the part of many winemakers to identify their wines from those areas.  It's all about branding and marketing!!

When an AVA is identified on the label of a U.S. wine (i.e., Clarksburg Petite Sirah, Willamette Valley Pinot Noir) 85% of the grapes in that wine must be grown within the boundaries of that AVA.  Additionally, as in Fact #1 from the other day, if a varietal was also identified, 75% of the juice must be from that varietal.  Hope you're taking notes, there might be a pop quiz soon.  xoxoSusan