The Alta Mesa AVA is an American Viticultural Area entirely located within the Lodi AVA in Sacramento County, California in the United States. The appellation's name is Spanish for "high table", a reference to the higher elevation of the land compared to the surrounding terrain. Geography and climate 90% of the soil in the Alta Mesa AVA is dense clay and heavy gravel. The appellation is known for warm summers, and low annual rainfall. Alta Mesa is considered one of the warmest subregions of the Lodi AVA. History Federal recognition of the AVA occurred on July 17, 2006. Vineyards of the appellation are planted to grapevines. The most common grape varieties are Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Wineries Vannatta Wine is an artisan, small-lot winery located within the Alta Mesa AVA. References American Viticultural Areas American Viticultural Areas of California Geography of Sacramento County, California 2006 establishments in California