San Pasqual Valley is an AVA located north of the city of San Diego in southern California. The warm, dry climate is well suited to the traditional Rhone varieties of Syrah, Mourvedre and Viognier, as well as some Italian and Spanish varieties. It was one of the first areas in California to be given AVA status (in 1981). It has only one winery within its boundaries, Orfila Vineyards.
©Orfila Vineyards
Located in a thin valley that runs inland from the city of Escondido, the AVA lies at a latitude of 33°N. This is further south than any European wine region, and is closer to the position of northern Morocco. The climate is dry and desert-like, with a long, hot summer that is followed by a mild winter.
The Pacific Ocean, 18 miles (28km) away, contributes cooling breezes to the San Pasqual Valley that increase its suitability for viticulture. These sweep into the vineyards in the afternoons, offering respite for the grapes after the intense morning sunlight. Colder nights extend the growing season, leading to the development of aromatics and varietal character in the grapes without sacrificing acidity.
The AVA (part of which includes the San Diego Zoo Safari Park) has well-drained, granitic soils that lend themselves to the production of healthy vines. The low water content in the soil causes the vines to grow deep root systems to reach supplies lower in the ground. Having less water also means the vines produce less energy-sapping foliage and instead pay more attention to growing small, concentrated berries with thick skins. The resultant wines have firm tannins and good structure.
While only one winery can be found inside the San Pasqual Valley AVA, there are several others scattered throughout the valley that share the terroir of the officially delimited area. These sell their wine under the larger San Diego County AVA.
