Atlas Peak - Wine Region of the Day
/ATLAS PEAK
Photo of Atlas Peak by David Toomey for Qorkz
Atlas Peak received its designation as an AVA in 1992. Sitting on 15,000 acres, it is a sub-appellation of the Napa Valley AVA. Atlas Peak's signature feature is its higher elevation than most of the growing regions in Napa Valley, allowing the vines to sit above the fog line and receive a few extended hours of direct sunlight daily. The warm sunny days and cool nightly breezes create a diurnal temperature variation of 30 degrees allowing the grapes to take longer to ripen, giving the fruit its signature depth of flavor and balanced acidity. The soil is volcanic, porous, and well draining which forces the vines to struggle and put all of their efforts into the fruit, concentrating the flavors. The area is known for its production ofCabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay.