Ramona Valley Vineyards
Okay. I admit I really didn’t know much about Ramona Valley vineyards, until I started researching to write this article. Who knew that there are more than 80 vineyards and 17 bonded wineries in the Ramona Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA)? And who knew that some of the wines produced here have beat out French wines in competition?
Ramona is San Diego County’s largest small town. Because of its location approximately 35 miles northeast of San Diego, tucked up in a valley behind the hills it still retains a country feel and small town vibe…and yes, anyone who has lived there for any length of time does know everyone else. As you drive into town along Hwy 67, you’ll notice a couple of small vineyards offering tastings, but what you don’t know is that is just the tip of the iceberg.
The Ramona Valley American Viticultural Area was recognized in 2006 and covers approximately 139 square miles surrounding the town of Ramona. American Viticultural Area designations or appellations were created by federal law in 1980. The other AVAs in Southern California include San Pasqual Valley and Temecula.
There are 17 federally bonded and state licensed wineries within the Ramona Valley AVA, most off the main roads and many offering tasting opportunities. In order for a label to include “Ramona Valley” at least 85% of the grapes must be locally grown within the AVA. And according to County regulations, at least 25% of the grapes must be grown on the winery’s property.
Now, if you haven’t guessed it by now, my husband and I are big wine enthusiasts, and frequently enjoy tasting trips of to the much more developed Temecula wine country. Ramona opens a whole new window of tasting opportunities and I look forward to reporting more about our experiences exploring Ramona Valley Vineyards. If you follow this link you’ll find links to all of the bonded wineries in the region. For more information please contact the Ramona Valley Vineyard Association.
Want to find your own home in Ramona? Please give me a call! I have three fabulous agents who have lived there for years and are ready to share their excellent Ramona knowledge with you.
Photo credit Ramona Valley Vineyard Association
Comments(5)