Crystal Springs of Napa Valley
Producing dark, aromatic wines from its steep, volcanic hillside vineyards in the Vaca Range.
Crystal Springs Wines to Know
Crystal Springs, Napa Valley's newest AVA (est. 2024), showcases the power of hillside viticulture. Situated along the western face of the Vaca Range, its all-hillside vineyards lie below the fog line, unlike its neighbor Howell Mountain. This positioning ensures cooler mornings with sun-filled afternoons, creating wines that strike a balance between the lushness of valley-floor fruit and the gripping structure and acidity of mountain AVAs.
Cabernet Sauvignon dominates the plantings, with notable examples of Cabernet Franc. Shallow volcanic soils yield fewer, highly concentrated berries, resulting in wines with dark, rich aromatics and a striking mix of ripe fruit and minerality.
The southwest-facing slopes enhance ripeness with ample sunlight, while elevations from 400 to 1,400 feet (120-425m) preserve acidity and freshness. These wines deliver bold flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and blackberry, with hints of graphite, dried herbs, and cocoa.
Viader Vineyards & Winery in Crystal Springs of Napa Valley
Notable Vineyards and Wineries in Crystal Springs
Crystal Springs boasts a stellar lineup of wineries that reflect the AVA’s commitment to quality. Here are a few to watch:
- Viader: Known for its seamless Bordeaux-style blends that marry power with elegance.
- Burgess Cellars: A pioneer of hillside farming, producing age-worthy wines with exceptional depth.
- Brion: Celebrated for its meticulous winemaking and wines of incredible complexity.
- Salvestrin: A family-run winery dedicated to crafting wines that capture the spirit of the Vaca Range.
With over 30 commercial vineyards, Crystal Springs is quickly becoming a destination for collectors and wine enthusiasts alike.
Crystal Springs Terroir
Crystal Springs is defined by its rugged, volcanic landscape. The AVA’s 4,117 total acres, with 230 acres under vine, climb from 400 to 1,400 feet (120-425m) in elevation, creating a dynamic range of microclimates. The steep inclines (15–40%) of the southwest-facing slopes maximize sunlight exposure, aiding in ripening, while the region’s position below the fog line ensures cooler mornings. This unique placement contrasts with Howell Mountain, which sits above the fog line, resulting in Crystal Springs’ wines having softer tannins but still a powerful profile.
Key Features of the Terroir:
- Soil Types: Volcanic, shallow soils contribute to low yields and highly concentrated fruit.
- Diurnal Shift: Significant temperature swings between day and night help preserve acidity.
- Southwest Exposure: Enhances ripeness while maintaining balance.
The combination of these factors creates wines that marry the plush, fruit-forward qualities of valley-floor vineyards with the structure, minerality, and acidity of mountain-grown grapes.
Crystal Springs AVA Facts
- Established: 2024
- Total Area: 4,117 acres, with 230 acres planted
- Elevation: 400 to 1,400 feet (120-425m)
- Incline: Steep slopes with 15–40% grades
- Soil: Volcanic origin, shallow, and nutrient-poor
- Dominant Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc