North Coast Wine Region

The North Coast AVA is undeniably one of the most influential wine-making regions in America. Its long history traces back to the days when European settlers first came to Northern California, near San Francisco, with their grapes for producing wine.

Today the expansive wine-growing area of the state is home to most of its wineries and carries a special AVA status. Furthermore, this large AVA contains several smaller, high-quality growing regions and AVA's. California's North Coast is best known for its world-renowned wine regions. This area comprises Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Lake, Solano, and Marin Counties - each offering its own unique experience and varieties of grapes. With such a huge selection to choose from, you're sure to find something you love!

This region is a subregion of California. We encourage you to dive into the outstanding wines that make North Coast a favorite for wine drinkers worldwide. Look through our site to discover what Wineries in North Coast have to offer and book a wine experience with us today.

Find out more about Wine Tasting and Tours in the North Coast

Where is the North Coast Wine Region?

Located in 6 of California's counties (Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, Solano and Sonoma), the North Coast viticultural area commences at Santa Rosa - where the Sonoma and Marin County boundaries meet the Pacific Ocean.

The North Coast is home to top wine regions of the USA that possess rare and priceless wine-producing properties, these wine areas are:

• Lake County
• Marin County
• Mendocino County
• Napa County
• Solano County
• Sonoma County

Bottles of wine made with grapes harvested from a certain appellation will typically be labeled with that specific appellation and not with the "North Coast AVA" label.

Unique Terroir of North Coast Wine Region

The North Coast area of California is one of the most unique and attractive wine regions. From its geographical location north of San Francisco to its 6 distinct microzones, it’s an ideal region for winemakers to produce interesting and flavorful wines. The North Coast AVA is a large, wide-spanning area extending 195 km from north to south and approximately 97 km from east to west. 

The AVA is distinct with vineyards located hundred meters above sea level and is more than 80 km away from any beach. The North Coast AVA in California is largely affected by the Pacific Ocean. This immense body of water has a cold temperature that brings a chill to the region it encapsulates. This means that this area experiences a climate more moderate than its inland counterparts with high levels of precipitation, consistent cool winds, and frequent fog. These elements determine the eventual character of the local wines. Grapes here mature at a slower pace and the grape-picking process is done later than in other regions of California.

Located near water sources and mountains, summers here promise a cool respite. Winters meanwhile are much milder than in places further inland.

The North Coast offers an incomparable terroir thanks to components such as the cooling sea breezes, energizing fog, and fresh mountain air which work together with the unchanging factor of the region - California's warm, bright sunshine.

What is North Coast AVA Wine?

The vineyards of the Northern Coast are carefully grown to adhere to organic farming techniques, ensuring the highest quality of grapes that can be used in wines. Through this process, it has become possible to obtain grape harvests that are eco-friendly and possess remarkable sensory features. In moderately cool and damp climates, certain grapes can grow quite well. These include Cabernet Sauvignon (which takes up 50% of all vineyards), Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel as well as other varieties. North Coast wines, with varying levels of sweetness, can be produced from both varietal and blended red, and white varieties. Red wines typically possess a deep ruby hue and a robust, gracefully balanced taste with characteristic tannins and harmonious acidity. White wines from the Nord Coast offer a fine taste and bouquet with hints of fruit, flowers, and citrus.

Red wines of North Coast AVA

North Coast AVAs red wines are renowned for their finesse and skillful use of oak, making them truly exceptional. Wines from cooler climates often have lighter, more delicate aromas whereas those from warmer areas have a richer, riper aroma. For bigger, oaky red wines you should look for options from California's North Coast - such as those in the warmer regions - and you'll be sure to find a bottle that suits your taste! 

White wines of North Coast AVA

Wines from the North Coast of California possess a distinctive character derived from their mild climate, intermittent Pacific temperature variations, and more. Each variety displays such qualities in its own unique fashion. California White Wines offer an incredible variety - from the ripe fruitiness of Chardonnays to the hint of oak and elegant structure. Or, if you're looking for a more aromatic white wine, North Coast has quite a lot to offer! 

Sparkling wines of North Coast AVA

With its perfect climate, the North Coast AVA of California is an ideal region for producing quality sparkling wines using the traditional champagne method. As such, some of the most luxurious bubblies are crafted in this area, making it highly desirable for winemakers. Carneros from Sonoma and Napa Valley, plus Anderson Valley, are some of the top sub-regions for producing fantastic wines. These coastal grapes offer a smooth taste with a balanced sweetness that you can enjoy! Indulge in these premium creations for the best experience during your wine tours in North Coast wine region.

Food to Pair with North Coast Wines

1. California-Style Pizza

Ed LaDou and the chefs at Chez Panisse invented this special type of pizza in 1980 which has a hybrid thin crust of New York and Italian. It stands out because of its creative and unexpected topping combinations. From seafood to asparagus, the delicious toppings of this crispy yet tender pizza will make your mouth water. Every bite is heavenly with its light and fluffy texture.

The California-style pizza has a variety of appealing toppings like chicken, peanut sauce, BBQ sauce, goat cheese, and pineapples. To complete the experience, it's best to pair this pizza with beer or white wine - including the sparkling varieties.

2. Cioppino

Cioppino, one of San Francisco's many renowned gastronomical creations, is a delicious and filling fish stew usually consisting of freshly caught seafood and tomatoes in a wine-based sauce. It's highly nourishing and absolutely delightful! Cioppino is a seafood stew that usually consists of crabs, clams, shrimp, scallops, squid, and mussels. It is usually served with toasted sourdough bread which is a popular accompaniment in many local areas.

3. Rainbow Roll

Uramaki, commonly known as the rainbow roll, is a type of sushi with rice located outside and held together by a nori seaweed sheet. The filling inside could include anything from tuna and salmon to avocado, and cucumber, depending on taste. This type of sushi is a popular choice amongst many due to its unique flavor combination.

The uramaki consists of fish and avocado arranged on top of the roll. Then it is cut into pieces. Its name originates from the rainbow-like colors created by alternating slices of fish and avocado. For the ultimate flavor, serve it with soy sauce and wasabi on the side!

Places to  Visit in North Coast

1. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

A kaleidoscope of beauty awaits you in these awe-inspiring gardens. Take a leisurely stroll along the 4 miles of trails and soak in the breathtaking ocean views and go on the lookout for whales. You'll be surrounded by an explosion of vibrant flora and fauna. From April to June, the rhododendrons are in full bloom, and from July to September, you can witness the marvelous display of dahlias. And even in winter, the heather and camellias add a beautiful hue of color. The paths on the premises are wheelchair accessible too.

2. Sonoma Coast State Park

From Bodega Head to 4 miles north of Jenner, the stunning sandy coves of the park span a total of 17 miles. A popular spot for whale-watching during winter and early spring is Bodega Head, while nice picnic spots can be found at Rock Point, Duncan's Landing and Wright's Beach. Signs are strategically placed around Duncan's Landing Overlook to warn visitors of rogue waves capable of sweeping them off the rocks. Located roughly two miles to the north, Calmer Shell Beach is popular among beachgoers for its numerous activities, such as beachcombing, tidepooling, and fishing. Explore the Kortum Trail that runs along the bluff-top or drive 2½ miles north of Shell Beach to Blind Beach. At Goat Rock Beach, which is positioned just north of here at the mouth of Russian River, you will discover harbor seals with pupping season taking place from March to August. If you plan on seeing seals, don't forget to bring your binoculars and head north from the parking lot. During summertime, some beaches have lifeguards patrolling but wave vigor and strong rip currents are best observed up close. Amenities such as parking (at a fee) and toilets are readily available - solitude is great here, sunset-watching is peaceful, plus it's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.

Frequently Asked Questions