An up-and-coming new wine region—Clarksburg was only designated as a formal wine appellation in the early 1980s—the appellation is located just 20 miles east of Napa Valley, near Sacramento. In an area just 16 miles long and eight miles wide, the appellation currently has approximately 10,000 acres of vineyards that grow more than 25 varieties of wine grapes including Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Zinfandel, Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Gris.
Clarksburg boasts a maritime climate very similar to that of the revered Napa Valley. Summer days during the long growing season are hot, but in late afternoon chilly air and fog from San Francisco Bay roll in, preserving food-friendly acidity in the ripening fruit. Early Spring frosts are uncommon, allowing for consistently high yields while the lack of late-season rainfall ensures the intensity of flavor within the fruit.
Climate, soil and location come together to create the idyllic farming of the Clarksburg appellation. The region’s nutrient-rich clay and loam soils are extremely fertile, making the area an early favorite for turn of the century row crop farmers who planted everything from sugar beets to tomatoes. That same alluvial soil, coupled with a naturally high water table from the nearby Sacramento River, likewise creates an optimal environment for growing premium wine grapes and vineyards are quickly supplanting row crops as the reputation of the Clarksburg appellation continues to grow.
Climate, soil and location come together to create the idyllic farming of the Clarksburg appellation.
