Angwin, CA

County: Napa

History

Angwin, California

Angwin is a small unincorporated community located in Napa County, California, in the United States. The history of Angwin dates back to the mid-1800s when European settlers started arriving in the area.

In 1879, a wealthy businessman named Horatio P. Litchfield purchased a large tract of land in the Howell Mountain region of Napa Valley. Litchfield envisioned creating a utopian community and named it Angwin after Edwin Angwin, the superintendent of the Pacific Union College Lumber Company.

Litchfield's plan was to establish a self-sustaining community focused on education and agriculture. In 1882, the Pacific Union College was founded in Angwin, which still exists today as a private liberal arts college affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Over the years, the community of Angwin grew with the establishment of various educational and religious institutions. The Angwin resort, known as the Angwin Villa, was also a popular destination for tourists and visitors. Many of the original buildings from that era can still be seen in Angwin today.

The economy of Angwin has primarily been centered around agriculture, particularly the cultivation of grapes for wine production. The region's high elevation and cooler climate make it suitable for growing premium wine grapes, and several vineyards and wineries have been established in and around Angwin.

Angwin has maintained its rural and agricultural character over the years, with a focus on preservation and sustainability. It has become a popular destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a quiet and peaceful lifestyle away from city life.

Today, Angwin continues to be a tight-knit community, with a population of around 3,000 residents. It offers a blend of natural beauty, educational institutions, and a deep-rooted agricultural heritage, making it a unique place to live and visit in the heart of Napa Valley.

Attractions

Pacific Union College

Here are some attractions in Angwin, CA:

Pacific Union College

This private liberal arts college is located in Angwin. It is known for its beautiful campus and offers various events and activities to the public.

Howell Mountain Vineyards

This boutique winery in Angwin offers wine tastings and tours. Visitors can sample a variety of wines, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.

Las Posadas State Forest

This state forest is located just outside of Angwin and offers hiking and picnicking opportunities. Visitors can explore the forest trails, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and observe the local wildlife.

Russian River Brewing Company

Located nearby in Santa Rosa, Russian River Brewing Company is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts. They offer a wide selection of craft beers and have a brewpub where visitors can enjoy food and drinks.

Napa Valley

Angwin is situated in the beautiful Napa Valley region, known for its world-class wineries, upscale restaurants, and stunning vineyard views. Visitors can take wine tours, go wine tasting, and explore the charming towns in the area.

Safari West

Located in Santa Rosa, Safari West is a unique wildlife preserve that offers guided safari tours. Visitors can observe and learn about various African animal species, including giraffes, zebras, and rhinos.

Calistoga Hot Springs

Just a short drive from Angwin, Calistoga is famous for its hot springs and spa resorts. Visitors can relax in the natural hot springs, indulge in spa treatments, and enjoy the town's charming downtown area.

Please note that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some attractions may have specific operating hours or restrictions in place. It is advisable to check their websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information before visiting.

Climate

Angwin, California is located in the Napa Valley region, within Napa County. It has a Mediterranean-type climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Here are some key features of the climate in Angwin:

Moderate Temperatures

Angwin experiences relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. Summers are warm, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (29-34 degrees Celsius). Winters are cool, with average high temperatures in the 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (10-16 degrees Celsius).

Ample Sunshine

Angwin receives an abundance of sunshine, with an average of over 250 sunny days per year. This contributes to the dry summer conditions and helps ripen grapes in the surrounding vineyards.

Low Humidity

The region has relatively low humidity levels, especially during the summer. This dry climate is favorable for vineyard cultivation, as it reduces the risk of fungal diseases in the grapes.

Rainfall

Angwin experiences most of its rainfall during the winter months. The wettest months are typically December through March, with average precipitation ranging between 4 to 6 inches (10-15 centimeters) per month. Summers are usually very dry, with little to no rainfall.

Cooler Nights

Due to its location in the mountains, Angwin can experience cooler nighttime temperatures compared to the surrounding areas of the Napa Valley. This diurnal temperature variation is beneficial for grape cultivation, as it helps maintain acidity levels in the fruit and develop complex flavors.

Overall, Angwin, CA has a pleasant Mediterranean climate with warm summers, mild winters, ample sunshine, and lower humidity levels. These favorable conditions make it an ideal location for wine grape production, which is a significant part of the local economy.

Neighborhoods

Angwin, California is a small unincorporated community located in Napa County. It is situated in the northeastern part of the county, in the heart of the beautiful Napa Valley. While Angwin is a relatively small town, there are a few distinct neighborhoods within the community.

Pacific Union College

One of the main focal points of Angwin is Pacific Union College (PUC). This private liberal arts college serves as the primary educational institution in the area and is spread out across a significant portion of the town. PUC offers a range of academic programs and has a close-knit campus community.

Howell Mountain

Angwin is located on the slopes of Howell Mountain, which is known for its vineyards and wineries. The Howell Mountain neighborhood of Angwin is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and is home to several renowned vineyards and wineries. This area offers stunning views of the valley and is a haven for wine enthusiasts.

Angwin Crest

Angwin Crest is a residential neighborhood located south of Pacific Union College. It is a quiet and peaceful area with beautiful homes nestled among the trees. Residents of Angwin Crest enjoy a serene environment and often have access to hiking trails and other natural amenities.

Deer Park

Deer Park is an adjacent community to Angwin, and the two are often considered together. While not officially part of Angwin, Deer Park is located just a short distance away and offers additional amenities, including a market, restaurants, and a community center.

Las Posadas State Forest

Located to the east of Angwin, the Las Posadas State Forest is a popular recreational area for both locals and visitors. The forest offers numerous hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and camping options.

Overall, the neighborhoods of Angwin, CA, offer a mix of residential areas, educational institutions, and stunning natural surroundings. It is a peaceful and scenic community that attracts those seeking a tranquil lifestyle and a close connection to nature.

Nearby Cities