Howell Mountain AVA
The Handwritten Wines experts search Napa Valley for the best raw products to produce its handcrafted wines. The search has been to find the best available product with unique qualities that create wines with the best notes and mouthfeel, a unique combination only available with particular grapes.
Handwritten Wines has been producing Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon since 2016. These produce wines that showcase dark fruit and spice notes with a rich, approachable mouthfeel.
Where is Howell Mountain?
Situated northeast of St. Helena, Howell Mountain overlooks the town and was the first sub-appellation of Napa Valley. The southern boundary of Howell Mountain begins at 1,400 feet above sea level, so growing grapes for production is quite different from doing so in the Valley.
The town of Angwin sits near the heart of Howell Mountain.
Originally named the first mountainous nested appellation, the area’s southern boundary is 1,400 feet above sea level representing the point at which the fogs crest, so grape growing would be considerably different in this region.
Handcrafted wines from the unique Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon grapes could be considerably different from those grown below.
What Are Howell Mountain Grapes Like?
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon and other grapes, grown at a level of 1400 to 2600 feet, are subjected to unmitigated sunshine. The growing area is unusual because much of the land rests on a plateau, making growing easier than in other mountains.
The soil in Howell Mountain is mainly volcanic, and you will sometimes see various red shades and even white ash. The result: Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignons range from dark and decadent to fragrant and tannic, depending on the producer.
Some Additional Characteristics of Howell Mountain
As mentioned, the soil in this AVA is primarily volcanic. The drainage tends to be fast, while the soil fertility is relatively low. As a result, the yields tend to be limited.
The vines here receive sunshine throughout the day without the fog and covering protection offered in the lower areas. There is virtually no ocean influence, and the rainfall totals about 50 inches annually.
Varieties Produced in Howell Mountain
The quality of the grapes from this area is high. As a result, the area produces material for many wineries, including Handwritten Winery’s handcrafted wines. These include the Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, and Viognier.
Learn More at Handwritten Wines Tasting Gallery
A visit to the Handwritten Wines Tasting gallery is a joy. You will experience winetasting with excellent handcrafted wines, paired bites, and fascinating insight into the quest for better wines.
To learn more and to understand the wines better, you can make your reservations at Handwritten Wines by simply visiting the winery’s website.
If you have questions or wish to make special arrangements, phone (707)-944-8524.