Russian River Valley is an area of redwoods in Sonoma County, California
that was officially granted appellation standing in 1983 and is
now one of the most recognized AVA names in America.
The appellation is internationally renowned for challenging varieties
like Pinot Noir, which excels in this cool-climate, yielding highly
expressive wines.
The vineyards in the Russian River Valley share the defining characteristic
of cooling fog that is drawn inland from the Pacific Ocean.
The seasonal fog and the tempering effects of the ocean give the
Russian River Valley an uncommonly long growing season, and create
ideal conditions for cool-climate-loving grape varieties, particularly
Pinot Noir.
These nearly ideal growing conditions result in wines of uncommon
depth and richness that still maintain their bright natural acidity.
ANDERSON VALLEY
Anderson Valley is located in the hills of the coastal region of
Mendocino County, approximately two hours north of San Francisco.
Only fifteen miles long, this beautiful valley is an unusual transverse
appellation -- cutting laterally through the coastal range rather
than lying between ridges.
Anderson Valley is also a mere 10-15 miles from the cold Pacific
Ocean. These factors result in a wide diurnal range, with daily
high and low temperatures diverging up to 40 or 50 degrees.
Anderson Valley ranks with the top Pinot Noir regions in North America
- production is limited and quality is rapidly increasing with powerful
Pinots.
SANTA LUCIA HIGHLANDS
The vineyards are planted on the southeast facing terraces of the
Santa Lucia mountain range, overlooking the Salinas River Valley.
The elevated locations utilize the morning sunshine before the afternoon
maritime breezes cool the vineyards. This combination results in
a long growing season, which allows the grapes to fully develop
and attain maximum potential.
Ancient, glacial soils combine with ocean fog and breezes to create
a climate for cool weather-loving Burgundia varietals Chardonnay
and Pinot Noir to flourish.
