Sonoma wines to explore (start here)

Top grapes and pairings to know.

• Pinot Noir

  Silky red cherry, raspberry, forest floor; sublime with salmon, duck, or mushroom risotto.

  • Classic-style Sonoma Pinot Noir to Try: Littorai, Hirsch Vineyards
  • Modern-style Sonoma Pinot Noir to Try: Kosta Browne, Paul Hobbs

• Chardonnay

  From mineral and citrus-driven (coastal) to lush and buttery (interior); pair with crab cakes or roast chicken.

  • Classic-style Sonoma Chardonnay to Try: Ramey, Stony Hill
  • Modern-style Sonoma Chardonnay to Try: Kistler, Flowers

• Zinfandel

  Juicy blackberry, black pepper, jammy energy; great with barbecue or pizza night.

  • Classic-style Sonoma Zinfandel to Try: Seghesio Family Vineyards, Bedrock, Martinelli 

• Sauvignon Blanc

  Vibrant citrus, melon, and herbal freshness—perfect for sunshine sipping.

  • Classic-style Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc to Try: Dry Creek Vineyard
  • Modern-style Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc to Try: Bedrock Wine Co.

• Syrah

  Spice, smoke, and dark fruit; pairs beautifully with lamb or roasted veggies.

  • Classic-style Sonoma Syrah to Try: Peay Vineyards
  • Modern-style Sonoma Syrah to Try: Pax Mahle Wines

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1) Origin story & history

Sonoma’s wine story began in the early 1800s, when Franciscan monks planted the first vines at Mission San Francisco Solano. By the mid-19th century, pioneers like Agoston Haraszthy helped establish the region’s viticultural roots—earning him the nickname “Father of California Wine.”

2) Location & geography

Stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Mayacamas Mountains, Sonoma spans coastal fog zones, rolling valleys, and inland hills. Its varied terrain makes it one of the most geographically diverse wine regions in the U.S.

3) Signature grapes

Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel dominate. Cool-climate areas like Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast excel with Pinot and Chardonnay, while warmer zones like Dry Creek and Alexander Valley thrive on Cabernet and Zin. You'll find it all in Sonoma, however, from Gewurztraminer to Sangiovese. 

4) Winemaking style

Sonoma winemakers lean toward balance and terroir expression. Expect more restraint and nuance than Napa’s power. You'll find styles range from low-intervention naturals to plush, oak-aged classics.

5) Notable AVAs

• Russian River Valley

  Fog-kissed Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc with bright acidity and depth.

• Sonoma Coast

  Wild, ocean-cooled vineyards; elegant, tension-driven wines.

• Dry Creek Valley

  Zinfandel heaven—old vines, spice, and structure.

• Alexander Valley

  Cabernet Sauvignon country; rich, round, approachable reds.

• Sonoma Valley

  The historic heart; mix of heritage estates and boutique producers.

• Fort Ross-Seaview

  Steep ridges, rocky soils, and ocean winds shape intensely focused Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

6) Climate & weather impact

From fog-drenched mornings to sun-soaked afternoons, Sonoma’s climate diversity allows dozens of grape varieties to thrive. The Pacific Ocean plays a vital cooling role, keeping acidity and freshness in balance.

7) Flavor profile & style

Reds: Cherry, cranberry, spice, forest floor; medium body, silky tannins.
Whites: Citrus, apple, pear, with mineral undertones; often bright and food-friendly.

8) Iconic producers

9) Fun fact

Sonoma County covers nearly twice the land area of Napa—but its relaxed, farm-first attitude keeps it refreshingly approachable. Many of California’s most sustainable and organic vineyards are right here.

10) How to explore Sonoma

• Go coastal

  Drive west to the foggy Sonoma Coast and Fort Ross-Seaview for coastal influenced Pinot Noir.

• Follow the Zinfandel trail

  Spend a day in Dry Creek Valley tasting old-vine Zin from historic producers like Bedrock Wine Co.

• Farm-to-table pairing

  Pair Sonoma’s balanced wines with local produce, seafood, and cheeses.