THE SOIL

The predominant soil type of the AVA is called Goldridge�a fine sandy loam covering about 60% of the area. The soil has a dark, yellowish, fine, sandy loam surface over a subsoil of golden yellow, sandy loam and fractured sandstone. It is derived from the remains of an ancient inland sea that slowly emptied into the Pacific three to five million years ago. It is particularly valuable for high-quality wine grape production because of its excellent drainage and low soil fertility. These characteristics allow it to be initially managed from a �low vigor� situation that may be readily customized with more water and/or nutrition, which directly contributes to wine quality.

Source: Paul Anamosa, Ph.D.
Soil Science & Viticulture
www.vineyardsoil.com
[email protected]