Trinity Lakes - Wine Region of the Day

Trinity Lakes

Trinity Lakes received its designation as an AVA in 2005. Situated on 96,000 acres, Trinity Lakes is located in Trinity County and is centered around Trinity Lake. The vineyards are found in the rocky benches that surround Trinity Lake. The soil is rocky and porous with excellent drainage forcing the vines to struggle and put all of their efforts into producing the fruit that results in a deeply concentrated flavor in the grapes. The vineyards are planted between 1,200 and 2,500 feet, allowing for longer exposure to sunlight but still subject to the cool winds that sweep through the region. This large diurnal temperature swing allows for a longer growing season and allows the wines to develop a well-balanced acidity and tannin structure. The region is known for its production of cool climate varietals, including ChardonnayPinot Noir, and Riesling.

Willow Creek - Wine Region of the Day

Willow Creek map

Willow Creek received its designation as an AVA in 1983. Situated on 6,000 acres, Willow Creek is located in Humboldt and Trinity Counties and is centered around the town of Willow Creek. Willow Creek soils are typically very rocky with little clay content. The terrain is dominated with rocks, sand, and a loose loam. The Trinity River cuts through the center of the region, offering a cooling element to an otherwise hot daily sun. During the peak of growing season, the temperatures can easily reach over 100 degrees, during the day. During the height of winter, the region can dip well below freezing temperatures. The hot daytime temperatures allow this region to grow a range of varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, MalbecMerlot, and Syrah.

Trinity Lakes - Wine Region of the Day


Trinity Lakes received its designation as an AVA in 2005. Situated on 96,000 acres, Trinity Lakes is located in Trinity County and is centered around Trinity Lake. The vineyards are found in the rocky benches that surround Trinity Lake. The soil is rocky and porous with excellent drainage forcing the vines to struggle and put all of their efforts into producing the fruit that results in a deeply concentrated flavor in the grapes. The vineyards are planted between 1,200 and 2,500 feet, allowing for longer exposure to sunlight but still subject to the cool winds that sweep through the region. This large diurnal temperature swing allows for a longer growing season and allows the wines to develop a well-balanced acidity and tannin structure. The region is known for its production of cool climate varietals, including ChardonnayPinot Noir, and Riesling.