Wine Tasting in Mendocino County

When it comes to California wine tasting, what often comes to mind first is Napa. But this quintessential wine tasting experience is often pricey and pretentious, with reservations often required just to visit a tasting room. Thankfully, there are plenty of other places throughout the state where you can find equally impressive wines without the upcharge and pretense of a Napa Valley experience.

Mendocino County, along California’s northern coastline, is making quite a name for itself as a go-to destination for wine lovers. The rugged northern coastline is home to a rural farming community that values the land and the products that it harvests. The soil is rich and the farmers are dedicated, resulting in an impressive list of wineries that produce locally grown, often organic wines made with sustainability and pride.

Some local wineries worth visiting are Greenwood Ridge Vineyards in Philo, Frey Vineyards in Redwood Valley, Albertina Wine Cellars in Hopland and Bonterra in Ukiah.

Year-round wine festivals are perfect for giving wine enthusiasts an opportunity to visit Mendocino County to explore the beauty of the landscape and the delicious wines produced there. January is host to the annual Crab, Wine and Beer Festival; the Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival happens annually in May, and Winesong! is held annually every September. These celebrations showcase the local cuisines along with the wines.