Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/992999
40 { THE SOMM JOURNAL } JUNE/JULY 2018 { wine resource } AS MEMBERS OF the wine industry, we're all familiar with Lake County's reputation as one of Northern California's emerging wine regions. In regards to the more than 250 million tourists visiting California every year, however, it's safe to bet most of them have never heard of Lake County. That's a pity. While the county's wines have a reputation for value, they've garnered little widespread notoriety compared to the more celebrated wines of Napa and Sonoma. Master Sommelier Bob Bath, though, is certain that will soon change. A Lake County enthusiast, Bath knows the region intimately considering his parents owned a home near Lower Lake for 20 years. "There are so many things going for Lake County terroir-wise that it's only a matter of time before this region will be producing world-class wines in addition to great value wines," he explains. Bath, who has worked with the region to gather important information for its new website, says that the timing is right for its launch. Found at lakecountywines.org, the site features exhaustive information on all things Lake County in one easily accessible location. It also contains many of the fascinating factoids Bath assembled for a separate, education-focused pre - sentation for the trade. Here are just a few examples: • The county encompasses California's largest natural lake, Clear Lake, which is also quite likely the oldest lake in North America. It's esti- mated to be 2.5 million years old, but its status as a top destination for bass fishermen is all but solidified. Gaining Ground LAKE COUNTY'S NEW WEBSITE OFFERS AN EDUCATIONAL FOCUS FOR THIS SIGNIFICANT WINE REGION by Diane Denham / photos by Nathan DeHart Master Sommelier Bob Bath, a Lake County enthu- siast, has led trade tastings for the region and also helped gather information for its new website. PHOTO: MIGUEL VINCENTE Clear Lake covers more than half the total acreage of the overarching Clear Lake AVA. The lake's moderating climatic influence contributes to quality wine- growing throughout Lake County.