Wine Growing Areas

Here is an overview of principal California American Viticultural Areas, (AVAs), the U.S. equivalent of appellations, associated with Petite Sirah. For a deep dive into specific regions, please visit our Regional Guides.

California Petite Sirah Acreage by County (2020)

COUNTY 2020 TOTAL GRAPE ACRES
(bearing and non-bearing)		 2020 TOTAL GRAPE HECTARES
(bearing and non-bearing)
San Joaquin 3,219 1,303
San Luis Obispo 1,798 728
Sacramento 1,378 558
Yolo 927 375
Napa 790 320
Sonoma 683 276
Lake 626 253
Mendocino 573 232
Monterey 369 149
Alameda 275 111
Other 1,326 537
STATE TOTAL 11,964 4,842

In California there is no one “leading region” identified with Petite Sirah, although the greatest acreage, including old vines, exists in Napa Valley; nor is there a characteristic terroir or even a signature interpretation. The highest quality interpretations range dramatically in style and production techniques, exhibiting as much diversity as the complexion of the state’s population. In the end, and with the understanding of high-quality fruit as a starting point, the skill and hand of the winemaker stand out as much as anything else, as we will discover below. The greatest constellation of premium wineries producing quality Petite Sirah are to be found in:

  • Napa Valley
  • Sonoma County
  • Mendocino
  • Lake County
  • Sierra Foothills/Amador

Petite Sirah Around the World

Below is a list of principal areas associated with Petite Sirah. 

  • France: South France (Rhône, Provence [Palette]), and Savoie
  • Australia: South Australia (Riverina), Victoria (Rutherglen), Queensland (Granite Belt), New South Wales (Hunter)
  • South Africa: Paarl
  • Other Countries:
    • Israel 
  • The Americas
    • Chile: Colchagua
    • Brazil: Rio Grande do Sul
    • Mexico: Mexican Baja’s Valle de Guadalupe
    • USA (beyond CA): Washington State