Sonoma

Sonoma: the home of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Right next to Napa but a world apart in feel, Sonoma is bigger, greener and more laid back, and its cool coastal pockets make some of California's best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Where Napa is about the grand Cabernet statement, Sonoma is about range, from foggy Pinot country to old-vine Zinfandel.

The wines

The cool Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast make taut Chardonnay and elegant Pinot Noir. Warmer inland spots like Dry Creek Valley grow brambly Zinfandel from old vines. There is more variety here than in any neighbouring region.

Where to go

Healdsburg is the ideal base, a handsome town square ringed by tasting rooms and good restaurants. From there the Russian River Valley, Dry Creek and Alexander Valley all sit within a short drive.

Eat

Sonoma is farm-to-table heartland, with oysters from nearby Tomales Bay, local cheese and produce. The cool-climate Chardonnay and the oysters are a natural pair.

Getting there

Fly into San Francisco or Oakland, then drive about 90 minutes north. A car is essential. Sonoma pairs naturally with Napa, which sits just over the hills.