North Coast

Summary:

Encompassing Napa, Sonoma, Lake County and Mendocino, this region

Location:

Stretching from just South of Dos Rios AVA down to just North of San Francisco, West to the Coast and East through Napa Valley

Climate:

Diverse, but earmarked by cool Pacific Ocean breezes

Soil:

Geologically diverse

Popular Varietals:

Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc, Malbec

Noteworthy:

One of a few major wine regions to be defined by geological boundaries rather than political boundaries