American Viticultural Areas in North Carolina
In the Wine Light we continue our series on American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) in North Carolina. Our focus in this post is the oldest and largest AVA in North Carolina, the Yadkin Valley.
Shelton Vineyards in Dobson, NC
The petition for creating the Yadkin Valley AVA originated from Patricia McRitchie on behalf of Shelton Vineyards. The Yadkin Valley name was chosen because the area had been known as the Yadkin Valley since pre-colonial days with the Yadkin River being a prominent feature.
Vineyard #1 at Westbend Vineyards – The first Vinifera planting in the Yadkin Valley
At the end of the 20th Century, the once thriving tobacco growing region was turning to a new crop, wine grapes. At the time of the petition there were over 30 growers within the original boundaries of the AVA and 3 bonded wineries.
Cabernet Sauvignon growing at Hanover Park – The second winery in the Yadkin Valley
A petition by Alliston Stubbs of Cedar Ridge Vineyards in Reeds, NC asked to include additional land in Davie and Davidson Counties in the new AVA. This petition was accepted. Other petitions to expand the area of the AVA were denied.
Boundaries of the Yadkin Valley AVA
Today the Yadkin Valley is home to some of the most premier wineries in North Carolina. New vineyards are being planted and new wineries are coming online. The region and AVA are fast becoming a wine tourism destination.
Quick Facts
Name: Yadkin Valley
Petitioner: Patricia McRitchie on behalf of Shelton Vineyards
Effective Date: February 7, 2003
Acres: 1,416,000
Counties within boundaries: Wilkes, Surry, Yadkin, and portions of Stokes, Forsyth, Davie, and Davidson
Geography: Elevation ranges from 3800 ft in Northwest Wilkes County to 694 in Northwest Davie County. Latitude is between 36°00′ and 36°30′ N.
Climate: Temperatures and precipitation are moderate as compared to the surrounding areas. The growing season and frost-dates fall within the optimum range for cultivation of premium vinifera grapes.
Soil: Soils are mostly clay with clay or fine Loamy subsoils with good drainage. The tend to be acidic with low fertility.
Source: Federal Register
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