Atlas Peak

Overview

Atlas Peak is a mountainous AVA on the eastern side of Napa Valley, with vineyards ranging from about 760 to 2,600 feet elevation. The high altitude places most sites above the fog line, giving abundant sunshine and cool nights. Volcanic soils of fractured basalt, tufa, and red clay are shallow and rocky, limiting vine vigor and concentrating fruit flavors.

Cabernet Sauvignon is the most planted red, producing wines of dark fruit, spice, and firm, mineral-laced tannins. Chardonnay is the leading white, valued for its bright acidity and citrus-stone fruit character. The AVA is one of Napa's more rugged and sparsely planted mountain appellations.

Key Varietals

• Cabernet SauvignonThe leading mountain red, yielding cassis, black cherry, and structured, earthy wines.
• ChardonnayA high-elevation white with crisp acidity, green apple, and mineral freshness.
• MerlotA softening red adding plum and chocolate to Atlas Peak Cabernet blends.
• SyrahA small but respected planting producing peppery, dark-fruited mountain wines.