Climate

A Place Wholly Unlike any Other

The climate and diversity of terroir in the Russian River Valley is a result of its unique place in the world; the valley starts just 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean and is heavily impacted by the presence of fog, the river and warm, dreamy days.

THE FOG

The Russian River Valley's proximity to the coast creates onshore breezes and fog that cools vineyards.

THE RIVER

The Russian River itself, which runs between the valley's vineyards plays a significant role in pulling in the fog and cooling breezes. Some credit the river for acting as the valley's air conditioner, and impacting the valley's soils.

THE SUN

While the Russian River Valley can experience warm days in summer months, the temperature generally does not rise above 90 degrees, and experiences a high diurnal temperature variation due to the cooling influences experienced in the valley.

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Soak Up the Sun. And Pack Layers

The same cool, Mediterranean climate that makes the Russian River Valley perfect for growing wine grapes also makes it a great place to visit most of the year. Warm, sunny days give way to cool evenings and chilly nights. This diurnal shift preserves acidity and aromas in wines, while leading to the advice any Russian River Valley native will give visitors: pack layers!

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Woman pouring wine for a friend over a picnic lunch

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