• Share this on Facebook | Twitter

Russian River Wine Country

Russian River Valley wineries range from very large operations, to small, boutique producers. Local wineries are best known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but Syrah and Merlot also do very well. Russian River Wineries include Belvedere Winery, Christopher Creek Winery and Paradise Ridge.

The climate of Russian River Wine Country is generally cool and foggy. However, the region is extremely large and contains a number of warmer nooks and crannies. Temperatures tend to rise as one moves east and away from the cooling influence of the Pacific Ocean. Russian River Wineries tend to grow and produce more Pinot Noir and Chardonnay the closer they are to the pacific ocean.

Russian River Valley terrain varies greatly. Near the river, soils are made of sand and clay. These parts of the region retain water quite well, and are generally planted with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Merlot. In the hills surrounding the Russian River, the ground drains more effectively. These vineyard sites are more likely to be planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Zinfandel.

The history of wine production in the Russian River Wine Country began during the 1830s. The earliest European settlers were of Russian descent. While they focused on fur trading, these pioneers also grew subsistence crops, including the region’s first vineyards.

A Few Popular Russian River Wineries

Sonoma Wine Tours

Related Articles

Be the first to comment on Russian River Valley

You must login to comment.

  • Share this on Facebook | Twitter