Chiles Valley
The Chiles Valley AVA is one of sixteen AVAs in Napa Valley; it is situated in the northeast reaches of Napa, east of Howell Mountain. Vines are planted between 300 to 1200 feet; soils are primarily volcanic rock along with alluvial deposits from the nearby Vaca mountain range. All of the vineyards are found on the Chiles valley floor, as the hillsides are to steep to support vines. The principal varieties are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Zinfandel. The red wines are rich with higher acidity and many others from Napa; they tend to be medium-full and offer a sleekness and harmony, even upon release.