We have a new wine map ready: the Northern Neck George Washington Birthplace AVA. Yes, that it’s real name, and it’s a mouthful. If you live in Fredricksburg, this is the wine country closest to you.

We think the two best wineries here are:

• Ingleside - try the Albariño

• Good Luck

This AVA stands out for three reasons:

First, it has a stronger regional cuisine than the rest of the state because of the popularity of oyster gardening and the proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and its famed blue crabs. Should you visit the Northern Neck, consider going on the Oyster Trail.

Second, it has a warmer winter than most of the state because the surrounding waters moderate the temperature. There are plants and trees in the Northern Neck (like the Longleaf Pine) that are common in the Carolinas, Georgia and Florida, but uncommon west of Fredricksburg. This translates into a slightly longer growing season.

Third, it is fairly flat. There’s a ridge running part of the peninsula that tops out at 190 feet, but much of the peninsula is low-lying. The predominant soils are heavier clay loams to well-drained sandy loams.