Capay Valley
This big valley only has 25 acres of land currently under vine. Perhaps times will change as cash strapped vintners might opt to forego the million dollar an acre price tags of Napa for a more gentile life in neighboring Capay.
This relatively new AVA, has a long history of growing grapes. In fact as early as 1861, a winery in the region was voted to have the best vineyard in the Golden State. While it is just northeast of Napa and a mere two hour jaunt from San Francisco, the region has yet to achieve any star status.