Sonoma County Wine Basics

Sonoma County, California produces some of the finest wines in the world. The soil, the climate, and the sun, combine to grow grapes that produce wines you will treasure. The quality of the soil and the climate account for almost 80% of the characteristics of any specific wine.

In Sonoma County, there are many special growing regions, also called "Appellations." If you buy a wine that is labeled as having come from a specific appellation, it must be made with at least 85% of the grapes coming from that specific region.

Sonoma County appellations include:

Carneros – This area is at the southern tip of Sonoma County.

Sonoma Valley – This area is 17 miles long and 8 miles wide and stretches from north of Kenwood then south almost to the San Pablo Bay.

Bennett Valley – This picturesque area is just south of the city of Santa Rosa.

Sonoma Mountain – This area covers the hills and valleys between Glen Ellen and Penngrove.

The type of grape used in making a wine, or "varietal" is what distinguishes one wine from another. Each varietal contributes a unique taste, flavor, or aroma. The common varietals grown in Sonoma County include:

Chardonnay – This is the most common white wine grape grown in Sonoma County. Chardonnay is a dry wine with a fruity flavor and slight acidity.

Cabernet Sauvignon – The wines produced from this red grape are full-bodied, deep in flavor and aroma. They age well, and are prized around the world.

Zinfandel – Red and pink wines made from these grapes have fruit and berry flavor and are light and spicy.

Merlot – Red grape that produces medium to full bodied wines. Fruity, and sometimes herbal flavors are present in a Merlot.

Pinot Noir – Delicate red wines that are smooth. Light to medium bodied.

Sauvignon Blanc – These grapes produce a dry white wine with crisp, herbal flavors.

The same climate that produces such fine grapes, also makes Sonoma County a great place to live. This causes real estate in Sonoma County to be in high demand. Homes with vineyards, or great vineyard views, always command a premium. Visit Sonoma County soon to tour our wineries, visit our vineyards, taste the best wines, and see the fine real estate available.

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About The Author, Erick Larson

Erick Larson is a wine enthusiast and Realtor serving clients that buy and sell Sonoma Wine Country Homes and Real Estate. He is also an owner of Home & Value Advisors which provides complete real estate finance, design and renovation services to clients in Sonoma and Marin Counties, California. For information about real estate in another part of Northern California, visit Davis Real Estate and Homes.

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