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Anderson Valley Wine Country

Visiting the tasting rooms of Anderson Valley wineries is like no other experience in the state. You will not find crowds of tourists and busy tasting rooms like in other popular regions. The atmosphere is more laid back in Anderson Valley Wine Country.

The climate of Anderson Valley Wineries is significantly influenced by the Pacific Ocean and is one of the coolest in the state. Regular wind and fog keeps grape acidity high and is particularly beneficial for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling. Anderson Valley Wine Country gets about 40 inches of rain a year which is more than most regions.

The terrain of Anderson Valley Wine Country ranges from alluvial silt near the Navarro River to rocky soils in the hills. Although Anderson Valley Wineries have been the most successful with cool weather grapes, there are some warmer microclimates that support Zinfandel and some other fuller-bodied varietals.

The early history of Anderson Valley Wine Country is a story of rugged, self sufficient pioneers. The Spanish did not make any land grants this far north, and early residents were mainly of Swiss and Italian heritage.

captain
“I was up in Anderson Valley Wine Country a couple of weeks ago and tasted at Navarro and Husch. Was really impressed by Husch; and in particular their Renegade Sauvignon Blanc ($18 600 cases), which is fermented only with native yeasts, and their Carignane ($15 200 cases). Both were unique wines at great price points. Navarro impressed as usual. Was especially stoked to find Verjus (Chardonay verjus to be exact) for something like 8 bucks a bottle. If you have a chance to make it up to visit Anderson Valley Wineries (and you should, it is really pretty and gets you away from the madness of HW 29)be sure to stop at both wineries. Cheers- CD”

> Anderson Valley Wineries

Comments & Reviews

November 16, 2006 | John Selgrath

I was up in the Anderson Valley a couple of weeks ago and tasted at Navarro and Husch. Was really impressed by Husch; and in particular their Renegade Sauvignon Blanc ($18 600 cases), which is fermented only with native yeasts, and their Carignane ($15 200 cases). Both were unique wines at great price points. Navarro impressed as usual. Was especially stoked to find Verjus (Chardonay verjus to be exact) for something like 8 bucks a bottle.

If you have a chance to make it up to the Anderson Valley (and you should, it is really pretty and gets you away from the madness of HW 29)be sure to stop at both wineries. Cheers-

CD

November 16, 2006 | Edward Parker

I have been up to Navarro too. I remember trying the Edelzwicker or something like that. I think it was a blend of Gewurtz and Reisling...very crisp and tasty for around 10 bucks.

November 16, 2006 | Ben Bicais

The Edelzwicker is a delicious and affordable blend of Gewürztraminer, Riesling, and Pinot Gris. I agree, Captain D, that tasting in Anderson Valley is a great change of pace from Napa. Handley Cellars and Christine Woods Winery are fun stops as well.

November 16, 2006 | Joe Birtchings

im going to have to try those.

February 3, 2007 | masters

Should stop at Esterlina Vineyards too.

February 5, 2007 | Ben Bicais

Thanks for the suggestion masters. I'll write an article about Esterlina Vineyards and post it soon!

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