Sonoma Coast
Sonoma Coast
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Widely considered to be one of the finest appellations anywhere in the world for the cultivation of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the Sonoma Coast appellation’s boundary begins with a narrow strip at the Mendocino County border, continuing along the western coastal edge of Sonoma County through the mouth of the Russian River Valley, and extending to the Sonoma-Los Carneros border of Napa.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION This rolling expanse of land is tied together by a single unifying feature: a climate cooled by ocean wind and fog intrusion. The terrain is varied, ranging from alluvial river benches to rugged hillsides within sight of the Pacific Ocean. All, however, feel the specific effects of fog, cooling breezes and wide diurnal ranges that promote complexity, firm structural elements and reduced yields.
SOIL DIVERSITY IS KEY Soils range dramatically – from clay loam near the San Pablo Bay to the rocky, ocean-derived soils in the ridges off the Pacific coastline. Soil diversity is a key factor in the complexity and broad textural range found in Sonoma Coast wines.
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Pinot Noir:
small berries with concentrated aromas and flavors. Lush cherry, red plum, black tea, spice, dark chocolate and appealing earthiness. Vivid acidity and plush tannins. -
Chardonnay:
Small berries with firm acidity. Lively citrus, subtle toasted oak, butterscotch, yellow apple, bright orange. Lovely vibrancy.
