History: Wine Pioneers
Pinot put us on the map
Explore a region where pioneers in winemaking put new world Pinot Noir on the map. Steeped in history, viticulture in the Russian River Valley traces back to 1876, when the region produced over 500,000 gallons of wine from 7,000 acres of grapevines. Some of the first wineries in the valley were established including Santa Rosa Wine Company in 1876, Martini & Prati Winery in 1880, Korbel Champagne Cellars in 1882 and Foppiano Winery in 1896.
Legends of Pinot
Much later, vintners would realize that Russian River Valley’s superb climate was ideal for planting Pinot and Chardonnay, among other varietals. In the 1960s-70s, boutique winemakers Joseph Swan and Joe Rochioli Jr. started making Pinot, ushering Russian River Valley into our current era of Pinot perfection.
And we’re just getting started
Today the Russian River Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) spans over 150 miles and 165,000 acres of premium wine grape vineyards. Segmented into sub-regions known as neighborhoods, wines from each neighborhood exhibit specific characteristics that celebrate the diversity of the premier Russian River Valley region. Our cool climate appellation produces an extensive array of delicious wines. From subtle textures to silky finishes, Russian River Valley wines are as diverse as the region they come from.
