Sonoma Valley
Sonoma Coast
One of California's oldest wine regions, where Agoston Haraszthy planted some of the state's first European varieties in the 1850s. The valley runs north-south between two mountain ranges, creating a range of microclimates suited to both warm and cool-climate varieties.
The wines of Sonoma Valley are made primarily from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Zinfandel.
Vineyard Map
Climate
Protected by surrounding mountains, the valley experiences warm days with significant cooling from San Pablo Bay fog and breezes that funnel through the Petaluma Gap. This creates a longer growing season than coastal areas but with more moderation than inland valleys, ideal for both Bordeaux and Burgundian varieties.
Terroir
The Sonoma Valley sits atop ancient volcanic bedrock from the Mayacamas and Sonoma Mountains, overlaid with Quaternary alluvial deposits and marine sedimentary rocks including Franciscan sandstone. The volcanic soils provide excellent drainage while retaining minerals, and the varied geology creates different water-holding capacities that allow roots to penetrate deeply in well-drained volcanic areas while accessing groundwater in alluvial sections.
What it tastes like
Body
Full
Acidity
Fresh
Tannin
Firm
Oak
Some oak
Ripeness
Rich
Concentration
Concentrated
Full-bodied, concentrated and fresh with firm tannin and some oak; blackberry, plum and tobacco with a spicy, earthy side, polished and broad.
black fruit · red fruit · spicy · earthy · polished
Similar styles
Lands in the same glass.
Grapes of Sonoma Coast
Frequently Asked Questions
What grapes grow in Sonoma Valley?▼
What soils are found in Sonoma Valley?▼
Map data: TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) · Imagery: Sentinel-2 cloudless by EOX IT Services GmbH (CC BY 4.0)