Russian River Valley Climate

The climate of California winegrowing regions is dominated by the Pacific Ocean. As inland valleys cool during the evening, they draw in the very cool Pacific air along the course of the rivers and other breaks in the coast mountain ranges. As the day begins, the summer sun warms the valley and drives the cool air back to the ocean. The Russian River Valley is just accessible enough and just protected enough to create the ideal growing conditions for super-premium vinifera grapes. The wide variation in elevation and exposure creates many unique microclimates, explaining why varieties ranging from zinfandel to pinot noir can produce great wines in this unique location.