Shenandoah Valley Terrain (Back to overview)
The terrain of Shenandoah Valley is made of relatively homogeneous soils. They are primarily made of loam, sand, and decomposed granite. Irrigation is sometimes used, but most growers dry farm their grapes.
The Soil & Terrain of Shenandoah Valley
The hillside terrain of Shenandoah Valley is made of soils that retain water poorly and contain very little organic material. This leads to stressed vines and extremely flavorful fruit.
The region’s terrain has historically been utilized for flavorful, full bodied Zinfandel production. Since the days of the Gold Rush, this varietal has defined viticultural production in the area. Miners drank very alcoholic, Zin-based wines that were probably fortified.
In the 1880s, much of California Wine Country was decimated by phylloxera. But because of Shenandoah Valley’s isolation, many local vines survived. Additionally, Zinfandel planted on its native rootstock is one of the most resistant Vitis vinifera varietals to phylloxera.
Several old vine Zinfandel vineyards planted during the 19th century are still producing grapes. Grandpere and Esola are two of these historic properties. Some of the best values in California can be found in Shenandoah Valley.
Shenandoah Valley Wineries
coyote said:
Good start but you're missing a few wineries.. should have a feature to add a winery
Posted 609 days ago.