Bennett Valley -
AVA Approval

For over a quarter-century Matanzas Creek Winery has proudly called Bennett Valley home. In December 2003, our Estate team collaborated with the Bennett Valley community to successfully propose the formal recognition of this wine growing region as an American Viticulture Appellation (AVA). This proposal required the community to verify Bennett Valley's possession of specific characteristics required by the federal government for AVA approval.

Evidence of Historic and Current Name
•  Bennett Valley is a well-known location name
•  Historically associated with grape growing since the mid-1800s
•  ‘Bennett Valley' is used to describe the Matanzas Creek drainage area

Unique Climate
•  Cooler than both the Sonoma Valley AVA and Sonoma Mountain AVA
•  Petaluma Wind Gap provides cool, maritime breeze
•  Unlike neighboring AVAs, considered too cool to grow Cabernet Sauvignon, yet ideal for growing Merlot

Distinct Boundaries
•  Enveloped by Bennett Mountain, Sonoma Mountain and Taylor Mountain
•  Includes both the valley floor and surrounding hills
•  Peaks and ridges define the southern, eastern and northern boundaries
•  Sonoma Valley AVA defines the western boundary
•  Partial overlap with existing Sonoma Mountain AVA

Additional Facts
•  Total acres: 8,700
•  Total planted acres: 850
•  Primary wine grapes planted: Merlot (80%), Chardonnay and Syrah
•  Number of Wineries: 2 (Matanzas Creek Winery and Sable Ridge Winery)
•  Number of Growers: Approximately 40