Food & Wine

AVA Wines of Sonoma County: Sonoma Valley Wine Region

Kunde Family Winery sits 1,400 feet above Sonoma Valley

The Sonoma Valley encompasses Sonoma County’s widest range of wine grapes, the most dramatic contrasts of terrain, and the longest history of any wine-growing region in Sonoma County.

The birthplace of California’s commercial wine industry in the 1850s, Sonoma Valley didn’t win official American Viticulture Area status (AVA or appellation) until 1981. It comprises more than 14,000 acres of vineyards and is home to more than 80 wineries and tasting rooms.

A sign next to the vineyards says Thank You for Visiting Sonoma Valley, Real Wine Country — Sonoma Valley welcome sign

Top Grapes & Wine Varietals

The oldest vineyards in Sonoma Valley are planted with Zinfandel, often called America’s “heritage grape.” Many of these vineyards were planted well over a century ago, and are often jumbled up in a “field blend” of other, rare cultivars.

Cabernet Sauvignon is now the most important grape in the Sonoma Valley; in the 1880s, it was locally grown almost exclusively in the Dunfillan Vineyard (now a major source for Kunde Family Winery), but by the time Prohibition rolled around, it was becoming a big deal in higher-elevation vineyards like Monte Rosso. Merlot and Chardonnay were popularized in the Sonoma Valley in the 1970s and continue to be important. Up-and-coming varietals here include Malbec, Syrah, and Grenache.

The Lay of the Land

The Sonoma Valley AVA refers only to the appellation in the southeast corner of Sonoma County, roughly outlining the borders of the Sonoma Creek watershed, which begins in the Mayacamas Mountains near Sugarloaf Ridge State Park and flows into San Pablo Bay. The town of Sonoma lies within the heart of Sonoma Valley.

The Carneros region (which is shared with Napa Valley) overlaps the AVA at its southern end. Here the valley is mostly flat and wide, and the growing season is characterized by mild days and cool winds that blow from the bay. The landscape here is a mix of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vineyards, dairies, and hay fields.

Past the historic resort town of Boyes Hot Springs, the temperature climbs as Sonoma Mountain looms above Glen Ellen and traps the valley’s heat. This is the home of old-vine Zinfandel, planted here since the 1850s. The mountainous terrain favors grapes that like to roast in the sun, but benefit from afternoon breezes; Cabernet Sauvignon rules the roost.

Around the hamlet of Kenwood, where the valley continues to narrow and we enter the Russian River watershed, wind, and fog from the Pacific Ocean considerably cool things down. Often on late summer afternoons, you can see fog caressing the forested ridges of Trione-Annadel State Park before flowing into the valley.

Notable Wineries

A glass of red wine being poured in a historic courtyard — Buena Vista Winery, Sonoma

Buena Vista Winery

Founded in 1857, Buena Vista Winery is the original Sonoma Valley winery. Today, owner Jean-Charles Boisset celebrates BV’s colorful history with a wine museum and tours led by a costumed version of its original owner, “Count” Agoston Haraszthy.

Kunde Family Winery

Set on 1,850 acres and farmed by the same family for five generations, Kunde Family Winery includes wine caves, outdoor waterside patios, and a mountaintop tasting and tour at 1,400 feet above the valley.

Benziger Family Winery

Learn about biodynamic farming at Benziger Family Winery, set in a picturesque volcanic bowl near Jack London State Historic Park. All of their wines are certified Biodynamic, organic, or sustainable.

Kenwood Vineyards

The grapes that are currently grown on the site of the local famed writer Jack London’s ranch are made into wines at rustic Kenwood Vineyards. Established in 1970 by the former Pagani Brothers Winery, the winery’s historic cellar dates back to 1906 and is located in the heart of Sonoma Valley.

Chateau St. Jean

Home of the iconic Cinq Cepages, Chateau St. Jean commands one of the most beautiful spots at the north end of the valley. This “must-see” winery evokes the atmosphere of a European chateau and gardens.

Ledson Winery & Vineyards

Another impressive sight close by is Ledson Winery & Vineyards where you can explore an architectural showpiece known as the “Castle,” nestled among 20 acres of vineyards. Taste highly coveted, estate-grown, handcrafted wines and enjoy a picnic from our Gourmet Marketplace in the majestic Oak Grove.

Find all Sonoma County wineries here.

Backroad Bodegas

The serious student of West Coast Pinot Noir may be interested in a guided tour (by appointment only) and tasting at historic Hanzell Vineyards, tucked into the hills above the town of Sonoma.

Restaurants and Lodging in Sonoma Valley

A salad, bread, and appetizers on a table on the patio — the girl & the fig, Sonoma

Where to Eat

Restaurant options include cookbook author Sondra Bernstein’s the girl & the fig; Mary’s Pizza Sonoma Plaza and, just northwest of city limits, Mary’s Pizza Boyes Hot Springs. At the north end of the Valley, owners David and Diane LaMonica have created a casual-chic global California eatery and oyster bar at Salt & Stone.

Where to Stay

Lodging ideas include the elegant oasis at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa in Sonoma; the blend of vintage and contemporary with a modern Asian flair at Gaige House in Glen Ellen; and the Mediterranean-style luxury at Kenwood Inn & Spa.

Written by Sonoma Insider James Knight