North Coast

North Coast wines

The North Coast region lies just north of San Francisco. It boasts a rugged coastline, abundant forests, and fertile vineyards. Napa Valley wines are what have made this region world-famous. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are primarily cultivated along the coast. Inland, it's much warmer, making this area ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel.

The North Coast Wine Regions

Rolling hills and one of the coolest climates in the state make the North Coast home to more than half of the wineries. The North Coast comprises several wine regions. Lake County, for example, has built a reputation for fine, affordable Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. Los Carneros, with its rolling hills, is the perfect spot for sparkling wines. And of course, Napa Valley, with its world-famous wines. Solano County, very similar to Napa Valley, is home to many renowned wineries. And finally, Sonoma, where Pinot Noir takes center stage.

The climate on the North Coast

The North Coast spans a vast area, resulting in a variety of climates. However, some generalizations apply to all North Coast vineyards. As expected in a mountainous region near a vast ocean, summer temperatures here are considerably lower (and winters noticeably milder) than those further inland. Cooling coastal breezes, refreshing fog, and crisp mountain air are all key ingredients of the North Coast terroir. Each of these, in some way, helps balance the one constant that influences all vineyards here: warm, bright California sunshine.

The grape varieties in North Coast

The grape varieties grown on the North Coast are the same as those grown throughout California. The obvious king and queen here are Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, which together account for about half of all plantings. Robert Mondavi Winery is located in Napa Valley, and its Cabernet Sauvignon is guaranteed to blow you away. As soon as this red wine pops its cork, the celebration begins. Every aroma is celebratory; every sip is magnificent. You'll discover lush oak aging and the craftsmanship, where each grape is slowly but surely transformed into an exceptionally fine wine. Another major player is Sebastiani. His Butterfield Station Chardonnay North Coast is made with Chardonnay grapes from Sonoma and Monterey. Thanks to this location, the grapes are wonderfully fresh. The process for creating this successful white wine is unique. After pressing, half of the juice is fermented in oak. After fermentation, the wine is aged for another seven months in oak barrels, which are a mix of French, Hungarian, and American oak. This refined process gives the wine a wonderfully creamy texture. Other important varieties on the North Coast are Zinfandel (in warmer regions), Pinot Noir (in cooler regions), Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc.