Tag: Lake County

On the western shore of California’s massive Clear Lake, a magnificent 4,300-foot volcano casts a majestic presence against the sky. Its core samples tell us it began to form 480,000 years ago as part of a volcanic field that experienced serious eruptions until around 38,000 B.C. When the first humans—tribal members of the Pomo Nation—settled nearby, they named it Mount Konocti, roughly translated to "Mountain Woman." Through the centuries, Mount Konocti has been a source of spiritual inspiration, legends, and wonder.

A new rush is on in California's Northern Mayacamas Mountains, and it has nothing to do with gold.

In just a matter of years, Lake County has gone from a coveted resource for exceptional wine grapes to a full partner in the winemaking industry, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with neighbors Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and Mendocino County. "Ten years ago, we could put maybe a dozen world-class wines on the table," says Peter Molnar, chair of the Lake County Winegrape Commission and partner and general manager for Obsidian Ridge. "Suddenly, we have 30 to 40 bottles of remarkable character and quality."

Just above the Napa Valley, along Highway 29 in the city of Lower Lake, California, a beautiful gem waits to be discovered. Thorn Hill Vineyards’ newest tasting room is perhaps one of Lake County’s loveliest. The beautiful Mediterranean-style building is adorned with fountains, travertine patios, stained glass, stone fireplaces, ponds and gardens. It’s a must-visit, not only for the property, but for the wines.

In the heart of the Mayacamas and Vaca Mountain ranges, just 20 miles north of the Napa Valley, stands a pristine wine country that has quietly been growing outstanding wine grapes for a very long time. Lake County, California rises above the rest of the world in more ways than one. It boasts the cleanest air in California, the oldest lake in the continental United States, and a variety of splendid soils whose contents range from volcanic to alluvial. On a clear day (which is most days), you can see Mount Saint Helena to the south, Pinnacle Rock to the north, and sometimes, even Mount Lassen to the east. On any day, you can see magnificent Clear Lake tucked under the watchful eye of Mount Konocti and realize that you’ve found a very extraordinary place.