Los Carneros AVA (also known as Carneros AVA) is a viticultural area that spans Sonoma and Napa in California. The area is located north of San Pablo Bay and is Napa County's southernmost appellation of origin. The cool breezes from the nearby bay, as well as frequent cool fog, create a microclimate similar to the nearby Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley AVA that is quite different from the hot climate of the Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley regions further north. Early-ripening grape varieties such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive here. The wines have a powerful acidity and often serve as base wines for the production of sparkling wine.
