The Edna Valley AVA is sandwiched between the towns of San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach in the southwest corner of San Luis Obispo County. Thanks to the brisk influence of winds that travel up the 10-mile long valley from the coast, the climate is much cooler than regions further inland.

Spanish Missionaries initiated Edna Valley’s history of vineyard development and wine production during the late 18th century. But it was not until the 1960s that the modern wine industry got off the ground. The Niven Family was instrumental in the renaissance of the wine region. They planted Paragon, which is now the estate property of Edna Valley Vineyard. In 1982, Edna Valley was made an official AVA, which was a huge step for Edna Valley Wineries.

To date, Edna Valley producers have had most success producing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, Viognier, and Roussanne. Baileyana Winery and Domaine Alfred excel at vinifying Burgundian varietals while John Alban, of Alban Vineyards, is one of the original Rhone Rangers.

Edna Valley Wine is produced in a climate that is significantly influenced by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Mornings are often cool and foggy, followed by sunny and warm afternoons. Edna Valley Wineries are subject to an extremely long growing season and a moderate climate, allowing their grapes to develop distinctive varietal characteristics.

Edna Valley Vineyards are grown in uplifted, sedimentary terrain that used to be part of the ocean floor. There are a number of rolling hills in the valley that create different microclimates. Soils are made of chalk, loam, and clay. The subsoil is made of calcareous materials deposited by ancient sea-life that resembles the subsoil of Burgundy’s many famous vineyards and provides excellent drainage. (Wine/Appellations)