This American Viticultural Area (AVA) is located in Mendocino County, California, yet is separate from, and not within, the vast 3,251,042 acres (5,080 sq mi) multi-county North Coast viticultural area in northern California due to its unique distinguishing features in topography, soils and climate. The small 1,421.8 acres (2 sq mi) valley area, centered around the town of Comptche, was established on April 8, 2024.

Comptche AVA is located in a natural valley opening in the forests of coastal redwoods and Douglas firs. The AVA takes its name from the community of Comptche, Californialocated on its western border. The northern, eastern, and western boundaries are defined by the 400 ft (122 m) elevation contour and separate the valley floor from the higher, steeper, heavily forested surrounding non-viticulture regions. The southern boundary is outlined by the Albion River, which also separates the AVA from the higher, heavily forested region to the south. Comptche AVA is further distinguished as one of the few areas in the coastal section of Mendocino County where non-timber related agricultural activity is permitted. Comptche AVA is surrounded by land designated as a Timberland Production Zone and zoned solely for the growing and harvesting of timber for no less than ten years from the time it was so designated.

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