Mokelumne River

Mokelumne River received its designation as an AVA in 2006. Situated on 87,500 acres, the region is a sub-appellation of the larger Lodi AVA. The AVA is named after the Mokelumne River, which drains out of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and passed through the region. The soil in the region consists of alluvial fan deposits of sand and loam. The soil in the region is known for its retention of water, allowing for the fruit to be dry farmed, concentrating the flavors of the grapes. The rivers passing through the region put off cooling breezes through the region balancing out the warm daily sun, giving the region a Mediterranean climate. The warm days and cool nights give this region a longer growing season allowing for the fruit to develop its tannin structure and acidity.