Wine Glossary
Definition: AVA or appellation
An AVA is an American Viticultural Area that has been recognized by the federal government (the Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau--TTB) for a distinctive combination of soil, climate, and identifiable regional wine character. AVAs are often referred to as appellations or districts, such as the Yountville District or the Napa Valley appellation. The word appellation (and the AVA concept) comes from the French Appellation d'Origine Controlee laws, which are laws meant to ensure quality within specific regions of France.
Source: Goosecross Cellars
