Sonoma

Photo: Anlace / CC BY-SA

Sonoma county might be overshadowed by its glitzy neighbour Napa, but it actually has an older viticultural history. It also has a more varied climate, especially nearer to the Pacific coast, where the cooler temperatures allow for some outstanding expressions of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and other grapes. Farther inland, Sonoma is home to ancient Zinfandel vines planted by Italian immigrants, some more than a century ago. Despite it's long history, Sonoma is still a wild, rustic landscape where the scenery can be enjoyed as much as the wine.