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While the region is often thought of as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir country, you can clearly see that is not
the case.

Jack Niven was the one who first recognized the uniqueness of the Edna Valley, and began the process to
have it recognized as an AVA. In June 1987, the Edna Valley AVA was established, covering 28,858 acres of
which approximately 2,923 is planted.
The new AVA was distinguished by the close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The hilly valley is oriented along
a northwest to southeast alignment and runs about 10 miles. It is located on average, about 600 above sea
level. This allows the cool Pacific breezes and morning fog to enter the valley from Morro Bay, through a gap
in mountains known as Los Osos Valley. Edna valley is roughly bounded by Lake Lopez to the south, Islay Hill
to the north, the Santa Lucia Mountains to the west, and Los Machos
hills to the east.

The volcanic range, known as the Nine Sisters, helped create the soil
found in the valley. This volcanic range starts with Morro Rock in the
northwest, and ends with Islay Hill in the southeast. Much of the valley
was once part of the Pacific Ocean and ancient marine sediments have
left a fertile base of calcareous shale and course sand. The soil is further
enriched with dark humus, loam and clay. The Edna Valley appellation
has one of California’s longest growing seasons. The extended growing
season gives complex flavors to the grapes, with more balance in terms
of sugars and acidity. The cool growing conditions result in traditionally
very low yielding crops.

The Edna Valley is small. There are only 23 “resident” (production
facilities or estate vineyards) wineries in Edna Valley AVA, but the close
proximity to Hwy 101 makes it a popular stop for wine lovers. Edna
Valley is also the AVA with the highest percentage of sustainably farmed
vineyards, certified under the SIP (Sustainability in Practice) Certified™
program.

Figure 50: Spanish Grape varieties
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