Russian River Valley AVA

Sonoma, North Coast

Located in Sonoma County, California, the Russian River Valley AVA gained formal recognition in 1983 and was later expanded in 2005. The area which covers over 150 square miles, stretches between Sebastopol and Santa Rosa on the Southern end and Forestville and Healdsburg on the north. All the vineyards of the Russian River Valley share a characteristically cool climate that is heavily influenced by fog from the Pacific Ocean.

Some of the most successful varietals of the area those that thrive in cool climates like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay which represents about 40% of all the grapes grown in the region. In addition to those grapes, the area also produces Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Pinot Gris as well as a respected late Harvest Gewurztraminer.

The winemakers of the area identify with a number of different neighborhoods within the Russian River Valley appellation. These neighborhood include Middle Reach (in the north closest to Healdsburg) Laguna Ridge (south near Forestville) Santa Rosa Plain (flatlands near the town of Santa Rosa) Green Valley (north of Sebastopol) and Sebastopol Hills (running east and west of the town of Sebastopol).

The Russian River Valley wines have been featured in all six of all monthly wine clubs. If you love Pinot Noir, you really need to join our Pinot Noir Club. Numerous highly-rated, exceptional monthly selections come from this region.