Santa Clara Valley (AVA)
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The Santa Clara Valley, better known to the world as "Silicon Valley", has one of the richest histories in California viticulture. Urban sprawl has forced most of the valley’s wine industry to migrate to its southern extremes, particularly to the Hecker Pass area. Notable exceptions are J. Lohr and Mirrassou, both of which continue to maintain a presence, if not extensive vineyards, in San Jose. Some other notable producers continue to make highly structured and sought after red wines from increasingly rare vineyards located on the western edge of the AVA in the foothills of the Santa Cruz range. The valley is largely protected from the influence of the Pacific Ocean by the Santa Cruz Mountains, although coastal breezes that enter a small opening at Hecker Pass in the west and the wider Pajaro Pass to the south help to moderate the climate. Although much of the Santa Clara Valley wine production is purchased locally, the quality of its wine deserves more wide spread recognition. The Santa Clara Valley also encompasses the Pacheco Pass AVA, and the winery deficient San Ysidro AVA in its southeast corner.

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Featured Wines

Martin Ranch Winery 2005 Syrah ~ Therese Vineyards A two-vineyard blend with a bouquet of black currant and slight anise, pepper, cinnamon and truffle, with a finish kissed by tannins and clove.
buy wine $26.95



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Winery Sponsors

Winery sponsors of Appellation America’s coverage of the Santa Clara Valley appellation.