In 1987 as interest in planting grapes in cooler areas of Sonoma County grew the Sonoma Coast appellation was born. It immediately took criticism for being too large (500,000 acres/780 sq miles) with much of the land not even being near the coast. The argument in favor was it all had coastal influence, but that description could include most of Sonoma County.
(Appellation = American Viticultural Area = AVA)
A couple sub-appellations (an appellation within a bigger appellation) have popped up. Fort Ross-Seaview and Petaluma Gap are smaller areas within Sonoma Coast with their own microclimates. Many of the wineries near the coast called themselves the true Sonoma Coast.
That's about to be rectified with the new West Sonoma Coast appellation encompassing areas actually near the coast. If you're wondering, yes, it makes a difference. The microclimates during the growing season are dramatically different as you get nearer to the Pacific. The vineyards from this area are known for clean, crisp chardonnay and pinot noir. You could arguably say the best pinot noir in the country comes from this small region.
You can read more about the West Sonoma Coast here.
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| Image from West Sonoma Coast Vintners |
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