Overview

The Calistoga AVA (American Viticultural Area), which was designated in 2009 and effective with the 2010 vintage, is the 15 th sub-appellation within larger Napa Valley AVA. Vineyards were first planted in the 1860s, a few decades before the founding of the town of Calistoga.

The total AVA area is 12,713 acres (about seven square miles) with approximately 625 acres of planted vineyards.

Lying between the Mayacamas Range on the west and the Vaca Range on the east, the Calistoga AVA lies at the northernmost end of the Napa Valley. From the foot of Mount St. Helena, the appellation stretches approximately seven square miles before brushing against the St Helena, Diamond Mountain and Howell Mountain AVAs.

A dramatic landscape with both steep canyon vineyards and serene valley floor vineyards, the Calistoga AVA is the most geologically uniform of all the areas in Napa Valley. Summer daytime temperatures frequently reach 100 degrees, but can drop by as much as 50 degrees at night. These temperature swings, along with the well-drained volcanic soils, produce grapes with both the phenolic ripeness and balancing acidity that consumers crave.

Whether drawn to its healing waters, perfect grape growing conditions, or rustic character, Calistoga has always attracted an eclectic mix of independent spirits – individuals with open minds and open hearts. Today, it is these winegrowers and winemakers of Calistoga who craft some of the most beautiful wines made in the Napa Valley.

two images in circles - orange poppy and trimming vine