Although Carneros Wineries are located in both southern Napa and Sonoma Counties,
region has always had its own unique identity. Being a huge Pinot Noir fan, I really enjoy exploring new, interesting wines from this region. Carneros is an example of an AVA that has a more uniform terroir than most. Whereas borders of some AVAs have been extended beyond their natural climactic boundaries because of politics and influence, Carneros resisted this all too common tendency.
History
During Spanish era of California, region was a natural place for settlement in North Bay due to its proximity to San Francisco, and accessibility by water routes. When General Vallejo secularized Spanish Missions in 1834, he divided region amongst several of his cronies. The area was initially developed to produce subsistence crops and livestock.
The first vineyards were planted in 1830s, and Carneros Wineries flourished for many decades until phylloxera devastated region's grapes along with most vineyards throughout California.
Prohibition appeared to be last nail in coffin for Carneros Wineries. After this unfortunate law's repeal, Andre Tchelistcheff and Louis M. Martini took an interest in region's unique climate. Investment in Carneros Wineries was slow until 1970s when it began to surge with rest of Napa Valley.
Terroir
Regular fog derived from San Pablo Bay and Napa River has a cooling effect on region. Wind is a constant factor, and it blows relatively unobstructed throughout most of AVA.
