Sonoma County Wine Region
Sonoma Valley
Valley of the Moon · Sonoma Mountain · Bennett Valley · Moon Mountain
The soul of Sonoma County wine country. California's oldest continuously operating wineries, the historic Sonoma Plaza, biodynamic pioneers, and the warm-climate valley Jack London called the Valley of the Moon.
Sonoma Valley AVA Sonoma Mountain AVA Bennett Valley AVA Moon Mountain District
Cabernet Sauvignon Zinfandel Chardonnay Pinot Noir Gewürztraminer Merlot
Why This Region Matters
California's Oldest Wineries
Buena Vista (1857) and Gundlach Bundschu (1858) are the oldest continuously family-owned wineries in California — both in the Sonoma Valley.
Biodynamic Pioneer
Benziger Family Winery on Sonoma Mountain was one of California's first certified biodynamic estates — a genuine leader in sustainable wine growing.
Historic Sonoma Plaza
The only Spanish Colonial-era plaza in California. The Mission, the Barracks, and Sonoma City Hall surround a park that serves as the town's living room.
Babydoll Sheep & Redwoods
Gun-Bun's famous miniature babydoll sheep roam organically between the vine rows — and their donkey bar is one of wine country's great outdoor drinking spots.
Climate & Terroir
A warm inland valley sheltered from the Pacific by the Sonoma Mountains to the west. Morning fog burns off by mid-morning, leaving long warm afternoons perfect for Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay. Cooler mountain sites on Sonoma Mountain add tension and structure.
Towns to Explore
🏘 Town of Sonoma
Historic plaza, California's oldest family wineries, Scribe, Larson, Buena Vista, Gundlach Bundschu
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🏘 Glen Ellen & Kenwood
Jack London country — Benziger, Imagery, Chateau St. Jean, relaxed Valley of the Moon vibe
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Wineries in This Region
Gundlach Bundschu
Not Yet Reviewed
Scribe Winery
Not Yet Reviewed
Larson Family Winery
Not Yet Reviewed
Buena Vista Winery
Not Yet Reviewed
Benziger Family Winery
Not Yet Reviewed
Chateau St. Jean
Not Yet Reviewed
Kunde Family Winery
Not Yet Reviewed
St. Francis Winery
Not Yet Reviewed
Sebastiani Vineyards
Not Yet Reviewed
Matanzas Creek Winery
Not Yet Reviewed
🗺 WinoNotion Visitor Tip
Sonoma Valley is the most historically rich wine region in California. Start at the Sonoma Plaza — park once and walk to multiple tasting rooms. Gundlach Bundschu and Buena Vista are within minutes of each other and are both must-visits. Scribe requires SVS membership but its place on the historic Dresel estate is extraordinary.