Sonoma is one of the original homes of American winemaking, with the first vines planted during the 1850’s gold rush. Through two world wars, prohibition and the great depression, Sonoma overcame all odds to continue producing exceptional wines. Due to the topography and sizable land area that Sonoma encompasses, a large range of microclimates exist within this one area. The warm valley floor of Knight's Valley produces wines with more similarity to Napa Valley, such as fuller bodied Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux blends. The Russian River Valley AVA with its well draining soils and maritime river influence provides ideal cool mornings and warm afternoons for grapes such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. These warm and moderate temperatures ensure that fruit maturity is achieved without loss of complexity and suppleness, resulting in wines that are uniquely ripe and elegant. Dry Creek Valley is known for its stony soils are ideal for concentrating fruit and flavor characteristics of the Zinfandel grape, as many associate it with being the hallmark of this AVA and a true Californian classic.
Along the coastal locations, the vineyards of Sonoma see twice as much rainfall as their inland neighbors, and are often described as the ‘coolest climate’ that sits at a range of altitudes. Combined with rolling morning fogs, these conditions have lead to perfect growing conditions for top quality Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah as well. As tastes have changed, it’s also become popular for elegant and restrained styles of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Although, thanks to a little film called Sideways, Merlot took a big hit in popularity for many years. With producers like Jamie Kutch, Hirsch and Arnot-Roberts spearheading the ‘New Wave’ in Sonoma, there has never been a more exciting time to drink wines from this historic region.
