5 Reasons to Visit the Russian River Valley in 2023
If you love pinot noir, come visit the Russian River Valley. If you adore Sonoma County wines, come visit the Russian River Valley. If you love good food, warm hospitality, wine country charm and natural beauty, come visit the Russian River Valley. Are you convinced or do you need me to really twist your arm?
the heart of sonoma county pinot noir
The Russian River Valley is synonymous with pinot noir. Cooling fog banks drifting off the Pacific afford wine growers the perfect climate for cultivating a picky grape like pinot noir.
The Russian River Valley is a fairly large AVA (American Viticultural Area) divided into “Neighborhoods” that range from very cool, coastal, and foggy sub-regions to sunnier and warm patches. This means that the diversity of pinots crafted from the RRV also exploit range- from red fruit to dark fruit; from restrained to flamboyant; and from elegant to lush. Come visit the Russian River Valley and taste the distinct and delicious ways that winemakers exploit variations in microclimate to alter what you taste and small in your glass! The more pinots to taste the better, right? Nonetheless, pinots from the Russian River Valley share distinctive characteristics like bright, vibrant cherry/berry notes, richness, baking spices, and supple tannins. Pinots from the Russian River tend to be crowd pleasers.
Some of the biggest and most iconic Sonoma wineries are centered right here in the Russian River Valley. Producers like Marimar Estates, Bacigalupi, Inman Family, Gary Farrell, and Merry Edwards stand out among world class Russian River Valley icons. (For the record, all five also have female owners, winemakers, and/or proprietors!!).
Some bigger operations, like Dutton Estate, produce pinot noir that’s widely available across the United States. In contrast, smaller players like me (Bruliam Wines) sell predominantly direct to consumer.
Look for bottles that specifically state “Russian River Valley” on the label to ensure your wine grapes are cultivated in this storied region. Revisit an old favorite or discover new wines. Wine tasting in the Russian River Valley offers gracious hospitality for both wine newbies and aficionados.
don’t love pinot? no problem
Wait- whaaaaaat??!! You don’t love pinot noir; why are you here? You’re dead to me. JUST KIDDING!!! The great benefit of cultivating wine grapes in a coastal, temperate climate is that ALL cool climate varietals thrive here.
Do you love cool climate chardonnay? Great, come taste the Russian River Valley.
How about syrah? Yup, got that. Come taste the Russian River Valley. Old vine zin you say? Easy! You want more esoteric stuff? Fine, here’s your albarino. I’d be remiss (& a bad neighbor) if I failed to mention our actual neighbor (literal, actual neighbor, like in the big building across the street), Russian River Brewery. In fact, microbreweries abound around here. Maybe our tagline should be “Come for the pinot; stay for the beer.” And now I’ll say it again: come taste the Russian River Valley!
an adventurers paradise
The Russian River Valley growing region, also known as the Russian River Valley AVA, encompasses around 150 square miles (about 96,000 acres). But less than 15% of that footprint is planted to grapes. The Russian River Valley includes a lot of unplanted, open space. If you love outdoor adventure, check out the Russian River Valley. Obviously, water sports are central to the Russian River. Kayaking, tubing, and swimming in the Russian River are popular summertime excursions.
But winter sports thrive here too. Bundle up on layers and hike any number of Sonoma County trails. Trails include steep mountain passes and flatter coastal loops. All levels of fitness are encouraged. Mountain biking, cycling, and road races abound. Complete a “century” cycle or pedal around the Healdsburg square. Some local hotels even offer bespoke cycling concierge services!
What if your “outdoor adventure” is a gentle stroll? Luckily, you’re easily accommodated since the best way to discover Healdsburg’s charm is by foot.
Whether you’re craving a hard core ride across rugged terrain or a brisk stroll, move your body to whet your appetite, because the Russian River Valley is delicious.
dine like royalty
The Russian River Valley is chock full of top-notch restaurants. From multi course Michelin experiences to casual fare, the Russian River Valley offers dining for all palates. In fact, a deep dive into Russian River Valley restaurants deserves its own blog post. But let me tease your belly with a few options that demonstrate the vast range of foodie choices.
For an all-out, fine dining extravaganza, for the crème de la crème, check out Farmhouse Inn, nestled among the most picturesque vines in the valley. For more measured fare, try any of the restaurants in the Stark Group. If you want the best, flakiest croissant outside of Paris (and other excellent treats, AND crusty artisan bread, AND a terrific latte), hit Quail and Condor just off the Healdsburg town square.
Don’t be afraid to pack a picnic lunch or to box up some local bread and cheese for winery noshes. Many wineries, like mine, welcome your snack bags. In fact, some of my winery guests request extra time in our tasting lounges so that they can enjoy a sandwich or fast bite between appointments. I’ve hosted guests toting everything from In and Out Burgers to bougie sammies from Oakville grocery. But please, please, be sure to check with each winery in advance, since every tasting room has a unique policy around outside food and snacks. With some quick research, you’ll easily find wineries who welcome you and your pets and your kids and your snacks!
russian river valley relaxation
With open vistas, sweeping vineyard views, fog-kissed air, and riverfront hikes, the Russian River Valley is a nature lover’s wonderland.
Dedicated to agriculture in all forms, you’ll find local farmers markets with seasonal produce and local delights. Pamper your appetite with seasonal goodies, and pamper your body with total relaxation. Here in the Russian River Valley, spa culture is alive and well. From the funkier cedar baths to hot springs, the Russian River Valley invites you to unwind.
add the russian river valley to your bucket list
As you can see, the Russian River Valley is known for extraordinary pinot noir but encompasses so much more. Here in the Russian River Valley, you’ll find everything from bites to microbrews, from cycling to spas, from outdoor adventure to sun kissed strolls. I hope you’ll consider adding the Russian River Valley to your travel itinerary.