About Russian River Valley

 

Located in Sonoma County, California, Russian River Valley is one of the highest-ranking wine regions in the United States. Some of the most well-known and cherished varietals in the state initially earned their reputation here. This region sets the standard for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in California and is also where highly acclaimed, old vine Zinfandel originated. The western and southern regions of Russian River Valley are cooler and foggier than other AVAs in the state. In addition, the cooler growing season and slower ripening period results in wines with great complexity and exceptional balance. In fact, many top wineries in Napa Valley come to this region to acquire their cool-climate grapes. Another defining characteristic of Russian River Valley and the Sonoma wine country is that many of its premium wine producers were not businessmen, but farmers and other inspired individuals looking to create high-quality wine.

 

History

 

The Russian River is the second largest river that flows through the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. It was given its name by explorers for the Russian-American Company who, in the early 19th century, chartered the river. They eventually founded Fort Ross colony just a few miles to the north of the mouth of the river. Beginning in the Mendocino County hills, the river flows south for 110 miles and empties into the Pacific Ocean. Russian River Valley Vineyards began forming along the last 25 miles during the late 1970s. Most of the vineyards are in the plains between Windsor, Santa Rosa, and Sebastopol. In fact, The Russian River only flows through the regions northern edge. Russian River Valley was granted AVA status in 1983. In 2005, the boundaries were expanded, which increased the region by over 96,000 acres.

 

Wines of Russian River Valley

 

Much of Russian River Valley has a moderate climate and experiences nighttime fog from the Pacific Ocean. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the dominant wines throughout the region. The cooler climate and sandy loam soil help to create richness and complexity. Pinot Noir from the region tends to have notes of black cherry, strawberry, smoke, and earth. The Chardonnays are aromatic with nectarine, apple, and Meyer lemon. However, there are many variations depending on the area.

 

Vineyards in the westernmost area of the region rest within the hills at the edge of the Coastal Ranges. Due to the proximity to the coast, the growing season is the longest and coolest in Sonoma County. This means the vineyards focus primarily on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The most balanced wines are found on the Green Valley Creek banks. Moving north, the hills become higher and denser, which means less coastal breeze and fog. The warmer climates in this area allow Zinfandel to grow beside Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

 

The warmest area in Russian River Valley is to the northeast. In these vineyards, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are seen instead of Pinot Noir. The Chardonnay grown here produces wines much richer and tropical than those produced to the southwest. In fact, this area is so different, it’s actually recognized as a separate AVA called Chalk Hill.

 

Meta: Russian River Valley in Sonoma County is home to rich Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, among other varieties. Learn more about what makes this region special.