Mendocino County, California, has earned the title of Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s American Wine Region of the Year for 2024. While the recognition is thrilling for this long-overlooked wine destination, it also raises concerns for those who cherish its tranquil, crowd-free atmosphere. Known for its scenic beauty and quieter pace compared to neighboring Napa and Sonoma, Mendocino has long been a hidden gem in the wine world, and this accolade may change that.
A Rich History and Growing Reputation
Mendocino’s wine roots date back to the 1800s, brought to life by early Italian settlers. Today, the county continues to be a quiet powerhouse, with grapes widely used by prestigious wineries in Napa and Sonoma. While it may not attract the same high-profile crowds, Mendocino’s grapes are in constant demand, with many high-end wineries sourcing fruit from the region.
Importantly, Mendocino’s fruit is legally allowed to be blended into wines from other regions, such as Napa or Sonoma, so long as a small percentage is used. This flexibility has helped Mendocino’s vineyards thrive under the radar, even as neighboring counties garner more attention.
Geographic Isolation and Sustainable Practices
Mendocino County, located north of Sonoma and west of Lake County, is California’s northernmost wine-producing region. Its relatively remote location, nearly three hours from San Francisco, has helped it remain under the radar. The nearest airport, Sonoma County Airport, is still two hours away.
However, it is Mendocino’s commitment to sustainability that has garnered attention. The county boasts the largest number of certified organic and biodynamic vineyard acres in the U.S., accounting for a third of California’s organic vineyard acreage. Its environmentally-conscious approach has earned it the title of California’s “greenest” American Viticultural Area (AVA).
Beyond its sustainability efforts, Mendocino offers a diverse terroir that supports a variety of wines, including pinot noir, chardonnay, zinfandel, and lesser-known varietals like gewürztraminer and riesling. The county’s most famous AVA, Anderson Valley, is renowned for its exceptional pinot noir.
Must-Visit Wineries and Where to Stay
With over 100 wineries to explore, Mendocino is a top destination for wine enthusiasts. A great place to start is Anderson Valley, located an hour southeast of the coastal town of Mendocino. Known for its concentration of wineries, Anderson Valley can be easily navigated via State Highway 128. For a central base, consider staying at The Boonville Hotel, conveniently located near many of the region’s wineries, restaurants, and tasting rooms.
Top Winery Stops in Anderson Valley:
Roederer Estate: A must-visit for fans of sparkling wine, Roederer Estate is owned by the Louis Roederer Champagne house, famed for producing Cristal. Their sparkling wines, crafted using the traditional Champagne method, are some of the finest outside France.
Pennyroyal Farm & Winery: This winery offers a unique combination of wine tasting and farm tours. Guests can enjoy a tasting of their wines, including sauvignon blanc and pinot noir, while also sampling locally produced cheese.
Toulouse Vineyards: Situated above the Navarro River, Toulouse Vineyards offers stunning views along with its sustainable wines, including gewürztraminer, pinot gris, and a variety of pinot noirs.
Goldeneye: Established in 1996 by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn, Goldeneye is renowned for its single-vineyard pinot noirs, as well as bubbles and gewürztraminer.
Additional wineries worth exploring include Twomey, Maggy Hawke, Navarro Vineyards, SEAWOLF Wines, and Handley Cellars.
Bringing Mendocino Home
If a trip to Mendocino isn’t in the cards, bringing the region’s wines into your home is easy. While many wines from Mendocino County may not be explicitly labeled as such, look for bottles from specific AVAs within the county, such as Anderson Valley, Mendocino, Mendocino Ridge, Pine Mountain, Redwood Valley, Potter Valley, and Yorkville Highlands.
Mendocino’s recognition as Wine Enthusiast’s 2024 Wine Region of the Year will undoubtedly shine a well-deserved spotlight on this unique, sustainable, and exceptional wine-producing area—though for those who love the quiet charm of Mendocino, it may feel like the county’s best-kept secret is now out.
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