About Mendocino County
Mendocino County is California's northernmost significant wine region and its most committed to organic and biodynamic farming — more than a quarter of its vineyards are certified organic, the highest proportion of any California wine county. The region's rugged terrain, diverse soils, and cool coastal influence produce wines of striking individuality, particularly from Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay.
Stretching from the Pacific Coast inland to the warm Anderson Valley and beyond, Mendocino County encompasses an extraordinary range of climates and terroirs within a relatively small geographic area. Anderson Valley, the county's most celebrated appellation, is a narrow, fog-filled corridor where cool Pacific air produces some of California's finest Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wine. Further inland, the warmer Redwood Valley and Ukiah Valley produce powerful Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon. Mendocino Ridge, a unique 'islands in the sky' appellation above the fog line at 1,200 feet, is home to old-vine Zinfandel of remarkable concentration. The county's strong organic farming culture — driven by pioneering producers like Fetzer and Bonterra — has made it a model for sustainable viticulture across California.