What Makes Sonoma County Pinot Noir So Unique?
Santa Barbara County often comes to mind when it comes to pinot noir because of a famous movie, but this grape variety actually grows Sonoma County, too. In fact, Sonoma County pinot noir is hailed as one of the most elegant tasting wines there is. The grape is distinct for its bright red color and for showcasing a balanced structure of earth and spice. But what makes Sonoma County pinot noir so unique? With the region’s varied microclimates and topography, Sonoma County has 18 AVAs and three of them are associated with pinot noir: Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley, and Los Carneros. Knowing more these places can help you understand why Sonoma County pinot noir really stands out:
Sonoma Coast Sonoma Coast is the biggest AVA in Sonoma and the largest licensed AVA in the US. Its year-round cool climate is attributed to it being close to the Pacific Ocean. Vineyards benefit from the cool temperatures and exposure to marine influences, so grapes go through a longer growing season that they have more time to develop richer, fruitier characteristics, while maintaining high acidity levels.
Russian River Valley The Russian River is the most distinctive characteristic of Sonoma County’s forested vineyard area. Coastal influences and the cool climate help create the remarkable flavor profiles in Sonoma County pinot noir. The cooler parts of the area produce wines with well-integrated tannins and a natural radiance, while warmer areas produce richer pinot noirs with spice, cola, and dark fruit notes.
Carneros Situated in Sonoma Valley’s southernmost area and overlapping the Napa-Sonoma border, Los Carneros is the first California wine region that was defined by its unique climate. The area is heavily influenced by strong coastal winds from San Pablo Bay, and the cool air keeps the vineyards cool all year. Here, Sonoma County pinot noir showcases distinctive plum, berry, and baking spice characteristics with a delicate flavor and elegantly silky texture!
Try it yourself!
The best way to discover the uniqueness of Sonoma County pinot noir is by tasting it yourself. Reputable wine stores in California carry a great selection of pinot noir wines from all Carneros, Russian River Valley, and Sonoma Coast, so you should be able to try and enjoy every variant.