Comment 6: Norton, Lyle W.

I support the establishment of the Antelope Valley of the California High Desert AVA to assist in identifying this unique viticultural area. Reputed as a hot, arid desert environment, the valley's unique geography and climate is different from any of the surrounding regions. Firstly, the high desert plateau, nearly 2500 ft. above sea level, surrounded by mountain ranges on three sides, experiences large and consistent temperatures ranges through the growing season, using altitude and afternoon winds to cool daytime heat. Secondly, as a wine columnist for AV Lifestyle for the past six years and 22 year resident, I have experienced the expansion of wine production and flourishing wineries within the Antelope Valley of the California High Desert, many successfully implementing vineyards in previously unchartered microclimates. The diversity of temperature, microclimates and soils, and the influence of the surrounding mountain ranges make this a unique region for the cultivation of wine grapes and it should be identified as such.