Day 6 | Sonoma Coast & Petaluma Gap (California)

Windswept Vineyards and Bold Coastlines

Celebrated for its cool, windswept vineyards, the Sonoma Coast AVA stretches along California’s rugged coastline, including the wind funnel known as the Petaluma Gap. Pinot Noir here experiences maritime fog and gusts that prolong ripening, yielding wines prized for their vibrant acidity, delicate red fruits, and subtle savory layers. Far from the warmth of inland Sonoma, these vineyards produce some of the most nuanced, refined Pinots in California—offering a compelling mix of New World exuberance and Old World restraint.

Key Features

• Maritime Influence
  Pacific fog routinely blankets the vineyards, creating dramatic diurnal temperature swings. Mornings can be chilly, while afternoons bring just enough warmth to ripen Pinot Noir slowly.

• Wind Corridor
  The Petaluma Gap acts as a funnel for ocean breezes, increasing vine stress in the best way—concentrating flavors, maintaining acidity, and preserving freshness in the fruit.

• Complex Flavor Profiles
  Look for bright cherry, cranberry, and subtle wild strawberry, accented by notes of clove, forest floor, or even a salty tang. Oak usage remains moderate, highlighting the wine’s naturally high-toned elegance.

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