Finanse publiczne · 7.04.1997

Mendocino Ridge Viticultural Area

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), is considering the establishment of a viticultural area located within the boundaries of Mendocino County, California to be known as ``Mendocino Ridge,'' under 27 CFR part 9. This proposal is the result of a petition submitted by Mr. Steve Alden on behalf of the Mendocino Ridge Quality Alliance. The entire proposed area consists of about 262,400 acres or approximately 410 square miles with the actual proposed ``Mendocino Ridge'' viticultural area starting at the 1200 feet elevation line, and encompassing all areas at or above 1200 feet in elevation. Because of the 1200 foot elevation, this proposed area is unique from other coastal viticultural areas. Of the total 262,400 acres, the petitioner estimates that less than one-third, or 87,466 acres, lies above 1200 feet elevation. Of these 87,466 acres, the petitioner asserts that approximately 1500 to 2000 acres or 2% of the narrow timber covered ridge-tops are suitable for grape production. According to the petitioner, there are approximately 75 acres of grapes currently growing within the boundaries of the proposed viticultural area. This 75 acres of grapes is divided among six wine