An American Viticultural Area (AVA) is a designated wine grape-growing region in the United States, recognized for its unique climate, soil, and geography. The AVA system was established by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to help consumers identify the origin of wines and to promote the distinct characteristics of different wine regions. Each AVA has specific boundaries and must meet certain criteria to be officially recognized. The designation can influence the quality and style of wines produced, as grapes grown in different AVAs often reflect the local terroir, which includes factors like climate, topography, and soil composition.