Additionally, rainfall is relatively scarce, causing most Carneros Wineries and growers to irrigate their crops. The lack of abundant fresh water as well as encroachment of sea water into some parts of ground inhibit rampant vineyard expansion.

As one moves north from San Pablo Bay, rolling hills begin to replace extremely flat terrain in south. There are a few hills that rise to 1000 feet, but they do little to shield wind and fog. Because of Carneros' consistant climate, certain varietals grow in a very methodical manner.

A multitude of fossilized sea life exists in soil, and is reminiscent of when San Pablo Bay covered much of region. The soil has relatively low fertility, giving grape vines only enough nourishment to focus on scarce, concentrated fruit. The soils of Carneros are generally made of relatively compact clay and are quite shallow.

Varietals, Wines, and Wineries

Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are quite compatible with terroir of Carneros, and AVA produces some great examples of these two varietals. About 80% of grapes produced here are either Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. Carneros Wineries also produce some excellent sparkling wines. Some parts of region have also had a degree of success producing Merlot and Syrah in northern, slightly warmer parts of AVA.

We have seen more in a years time than we saw in ten elsewhere. We have visited an ostrich farm outside of Tucson, walked safely at night through downtown Phoenix for a Sun's basketball game, cross country skied in Flagstaff, and horseback rode through a Saquaro cactus forest. By now you would think we are close to exhausting Arizona's resources. Hardly. It is just like our neighbors said. We haven't begun. Let's see, I am planning to visit Nogales on border of Mexico to pick up some great bargains. Then I want to visit Lake Havasu on my way to Las Vegas. Well, you get idea.