Definition: ava

This system is broadly similar to the AOC or DOC systems, but does not involve the same strict rules as in France or Italy. On the label, the acronym, accompanied by one of the 100 approved regions, means that at least 85% of the grapes used in the wine come from the appellation region. For varietal wines, the legal minimum is 75% of grapes of the specified variety, originating from the appellation region. California alone has more than 60 AVAs. In 2003, the Napa Valley Vintners association launched a new appellation, "100% Napa", which guarantees that all the grapes used to make a wine come exclusively from the famous Californian valley. The aim is to better differentiate local production in a context of increased competition.

The largest AVA in the United States is Ohio River Valley (16 million acres - 25,000 square miles - 6,400,000 hectares!). It spans four states: West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky.

The smallest is Cole Ranch AVA, which covers only 60 acres (24 hectares) in Mendocino County and is owned by the Sterling family.