Lake County
- Gregory Cellars
- Jan 21
- 5 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
The wine region of Lake County is located in Northern California and is an often overlooked gem in the world of west coast viticulture. Situated just north of Napa Valley and surrounding Clear Lake - the largest natural freshwater lake in California - this wine region is characterized by its high-altitude vineyards, volcanic soils, and pristine air quality. In recent decades, Lake County has emerged as a top-tier wine producing region, shedding its reputation as a bulk wine supplier and stepping into the spotlight for high-quality wines. For those seeking a lesser-explored yet rewarding California wine experience, Lake County offers exceptional wines and stunning natural beauty. The rich history of this region is deeply connected to its natural surroundings. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years by the Pomo Native American people, who thrived on the natural resources.
Viticulture in Lake County, like much of northern California, dates back to the 1870's, when European immigrants recognized the potential of the area's soils and Mediterranean climate. Much of the area's soil is derived from volcanic ash and lava flows from the dormant Mount Konocti. Mount Konocti is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and sits atop of the Clear Lake Volcanic Field, an area that has been volcanically active for over 2 million years. Though Mount Konocti has been dormant for at least 11,000 years, geothermal activity beneath the surface hints at its volcanic origins. These soils are nutrient-poor but excellent for viticulture, forcing vines to dig deep and produce concentrated fruit. Vineyards in Lake County are planted at elevations ranging from 1300 to over 3,000 feet, among the highest in California. This altitude results in cooler nights, which preserve acidity and balance in the grapes. It should be noted that the clean air, largely due to the region's remoteness and lack of industrial pollution, allows for intense sunlight, aiding in grape ripening.
As mentioned, for thousands of years, Mount Konocti has held spiritual significance for the Pomo people Native American tribes indigenous to the region. They regard the mountain as sacred, with legends and stories tied to its formation and spiritual power. The Pomo believed the mountain housed spirits, and its caves and crevices were viewed as portals to the spiritual world.
Lake County American Viticultural Areas
Red Hills Lake County AVA: known for its volcanic soils and exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon
High Valley AVA: offers a mix of cooler and warmer pockets, supporting a diverse range of grapes
Big Valley District AVA: renown for a crisp Suavignon Blanc
Kelsey Beach AVA: a newer AVA, producing balanced whites and reds
Guenoc Valley AVA: The first AVA granted to a single winery, historically significant.
Lake County has many cool events like the Kelseyville Wine Festival, the Lake County Beer, Wine & Swine Baconfest, and the Kelseyville Pear Festival. The Kelseyville Pear Festival (Fig. 4) is an annual event on the last Saturday of September, celebrating the region's rich agricultural heritage, particularily pear cultivation. This agricultural heritage is deeply rooted in its unique geography, climate, and community traditions. Lake County farmers have embraced sustainable and organic farming practices, particularily in pear orchards and vineyards. Beyond pears and grapes, the region is also known for producing high-quality olive oil, as well as supports a variety of other crops, including walnuts, plums, apples, and stone fruits. Lavender farms and other specialty crops are also becoming part of the region's agricultural identity.
Lake County has remained relatively affordable compared to its neighbors in Napa Valley, attracting boutique wineries and innovative winemakers, like Gregory Graham. Many of those winemakers focus on sustainable and organic practices is a point of pride, with many vineyards certified sustainable or biodynamic. The region produces some of California's most highly regarded wines including, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel. These wines offer wines with excellent structure, balance, and freshness, thanks to cooler nights. I highly recommend this wine region as it provides excellent wines with exceptional quality at a more approachable price than its closest neighbors, showcasing the heart and soul of a less-commercialized region of California. Exactly what I am looking for!
Gregory Graham 2014 Syrah - Mouthwatering Lake County, Red Hills red wine, deep ruby with a concentrated core that fades to a pink meniscus, no gas or fluctuation, slight sediment. This wine is dry, with medium plus acidity, and beautiful rounded tannin structure. Blueberry, plum, cherry, and milk chocolate with smooth, amazing finish with some black and green pepper notes. The vintner, Mr. Graham, has a 50% case sale once a year for members. When that happens, you will NEVER find a better bottle of Syrah under $14.00.
Brassfield 2007 Monte Sereno Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon - Appearance is deep ruby. On the nose this wine has medium plus aromatic intensity of primary aromas of blackberry and black cherry, secondary aromas of vanilla bean and caramel, and tertiery aromas of dusty earth floor. On the palate, this wine is bold and dry, with medium plus tannins, medium acidity with primary flavors of black cherry and blackberry, secondary flavors of chocolate and caramel. This wine is balanced, has layers of concentrated complexity, and a fruity finish. Absolutely delicious.
Chacewater 15 Year Old Tawny Dessert Wine - Aged for 15 years in small oak casks allowing for some oxidation creating a dessert with viscosity. This wine has intense wood and nutty characters with a blend of mocha, toffee, and tobacco. This concentrated vintage sits at 21.2% alcohol and absolutely incredible length and balance. I tasted this wine with Amber, and we also enjoyed their astounding collection of vintage olive oils.
Leaving the serene beauty of Lake County wine country (Fig. 5) after a weekend with my daughter and twin grandsons was bittersweet. Watching the boys play soccer and their laughter filled my heart and saying goodbye always leaves a tender ache. As I drove back home with Lucy by my side, the miles felt long and quiet. The rolling vineyards fade in the rearview mirror, replaced by the vast desert ahead, but my thoughts lingered on their smiles and their contagious energy of youth. Lucy seemed to sense my mood, and her calm presence offered comfort as I reflect on the joy of family and the pain of not seeing them often feels like a quiet ache in my heart, and a constant reminder of the moments I've missed watching them grow up. Below are my Lake County map (Fig. 6) and wine labels (Fig. 7,8, 9):
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