While Napa Valley's wine region is compacted into one relatively small area along Rt. 29 and the Silverado Trail, Sonoma is twice as large. With such varied terroir, it’s unsurprising that More than 50 different types of grapes are grown here. Historically a little more laid back, modern Sonoma has its fair share of Michelin-starred chefs.

“Sonoma’s viticultural areas have become increasingly specialized as vintners understand the fine points of matching grape variety to site.” -Karen McNeil, The Wine Bible.

Alexander Valley (est 1984) - On the northern edge of Sonoma County, the center this growing region is the town of Geyserville. Cabernet Sauvignon

Bennett Valley (est. 2003) has volcanic and clay soils and a moderately cool climate—similar to the right bank, anyone? Merlot and Chardonnay

Chalk Hill (est. 1983) They weren’t being creative when they named this AVA; the soil is literally chalky, white ash. Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon

Dry Creek Valley (est. 1983) At only 16 miles long and two miles DCV is one of the smallest viticultural areas in America. - Zinfandel

Fort Ross-Seaview (est. 2012) - Legend has it, this AVA was first planted by Russian sailors. With elevations of 800-1800ft. and it’s proximity to the Pacific gives this AVA a cooler climate and extended growing period. Pinot Noir

Fountaingrove District (est. 2015) - It’s elevation (of more than 2,000ft in some places) as well as the coastal influences thanks to a gap in the mountains makes this AVA unique. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah

Green Valley (est. 1983) A subsection of the Russian River Valley, this AVA is famous for its Goldridge soil.  Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

Knights Valley (est. 1983) Just west of St. Helena in Napa Valley, it’s no surprise this AVA is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon

Moon Mountain District (est. 2013) Located within the Sonoma Valley AVA, Moon Mountain’s elevation (from 400 - 2,200ft.) sets it apart. Cabernet Sauvignon

Northern Sonoma (est. 1990) encompasses Chalk Hill, Knights Valley, Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley most of Green Valley as well as portions of Rockpile and Pine Mountain-Cloverdale Peak. Cabernet Sauvignon

Petaluma Gap (est. 2017) This AVA is located just 25 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Defined by its ripping winds and unique fog conditions, its perfect for growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah.

Pine Mountain-Cloverdale Peak (est. 2011) This AVA spans multiple mountain and overlaps the northernmost portion of the Alexander Valley and Northern Sonoma AVAs. Steep topography and high elevations create a growing seasons significantly different from that of the Alexander Valley Floor. Cabernet Sauvignon

Rockpile (est. 2002) This AVA extends west from Lake Sonoma to the Mendocino County border. Rocky soils and elevations of 1900ft. Are known to give its red grape varietals intense flavors. Zinfandel

Russian River Valley (est. 1983) Thanks to the fog that travels up the river from the coast, evening temperatures will drop 35-40º from their daytime highs leading to an extended growing season. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Sonoma Coast (est. 1987) is the largest appellation (extending from San Pablo Bay to the border with Mendocino County) but also the least planted. It receives twice as much rainfall as other parts of Sonoma. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Sonoma Mountain (est. 1985) Rising 2400ft. above Glen Ellen, Sonoma Mt has hillside terroir and well-drained soils. Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

West Sonoma Coast (est. 2022) The newest AVA in Sonoma is located on the far wester sliver of rugged coastline. With elevations ranging from 400-1800ft and salty sea air, their Chardonnay and Pinot Noirs are known for bright acidity and moderate alcohol.