Napa County Soil Series

Hambright and Guenoc

Soil characteristics

This region is dominated by the typical red volcanic soils of Stagecoach, but what makes the area unique is its enormous quantities of flat rock, which provide exceptional drainage to the hillside blocks.

Topography

The eastern proximity gives this section of the vineyard a different spectrum of light than the intense south-western sun.

Climate

This area has a more typically inland climate than the other two warm-climate areas of Stagecoach, mimicking the rest of the south-facing Foss Valley a bit more closely.  The Atlas Peak Region has significantly less marine influence than the rest of the vineyard and has more shelter from the valley breezes, warming the region early in the morning and retaining the heat throughout the day.  In fact, according to our onsite weather stations, this is the warmest growing region of Stagecoach Vineyard.

Resulting fruit

This south-facing, warm area produces consistently high-quality fruit.  Slower ripening is typical here than in the Prichard Hill Region, resulting in softer tannins and blue fruit notes.