Top 7 Anderson Valley Wineries
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Northern California has long been synonymous with world-class wine, and Mendocino County is no exception! With thousands of vineyards dotting the landscape, this region has gained a reputation as a wine lover’s paradise. Anderson Valley AVA (American
Northern California has long been synonymous with world-class wine, and Mendocino County is no exception!
With thousands of vineyards dotting the landscape, this region has gained a reputation as a wine lover’s paradise.
Anderson Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area) is located in Mendocino County in northern California, about 110 miles north of San Francisco. There are approximately 2,450 acres planted in Anderson Valley AVA, with over 60 wineries in operation.
There are many excellent wineries in this region, but in order to simplify your travel planning, we have created a list of our top recommendations. Uncover the top 7 Anderson Valley wineries!
Photo credit: Navarro Vineyards and Winery
Nestled in the picturesque Anderson Valley of Philo, Navarro Vineyards and Winery is a family-owned and operated winery producing high-quality wines for almost five decades.
From Los Angeles: Private Vineyard & Coastal Wine Tasting Tour Trip
The winery was founded in 1973 by Ted Bennett and Deborah Cahn, who were drawn to the area’s cool climate and ideal soil conditions for growing grapes. Today, Navarro Vineyards is run by their children, Aaron and Sarah, who continue the family’s legacy of producing exceptional wines using sustainable and organic farming methods.
Navarro Vineyards boasts a diverse selection of wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Muscat Blanc. The winery is renowned for its Pinot Noir and Gewürztraminer, which have won numerous awards.
Experience 8-Hour Private, Customized Wine Tour up to 6 Guests Napa Valley & Sonoma
The winery’s 120-acre property is a natural wonderland with vineyards, forests, meadows, and the Navarro River. The river provides irrigation for the vineyards and serves as a vital habitat for local wildlife.
Visitors to Navarro Vineyards are welcome to stop by the tasting room without reservations. The winery offers tastings of its wide variety of wines and non-alcoholic grape juices. Visitors can purchase picnic supplies from the deli counter and enjoy a gourmet lunch on the rolling green lawn overlooking the vineyards.
Uncover Small-Group Vintage Wine Country Tour to Sonoma and Napa
Navarro Vineyards is an ideal destination for a scenic road trip along Highway 128. Whether you’re a wine lover or just looking for a relaxing day out in nature, Navarro Vineyards will impress you.
Key takeaway: With its commitment to sustainability and high-quality wines, Navarro Vineyards is a must-visit for anyone exploring California’s wine country.
2. Roederer Estate
Photo credit: Roederer Estate
California is renowned for producing some of the world’s best wines, and Roederer Estate is a name that shines bright in the state’s winemaking history.
Established in 1982 by Jean-Claude Rouzaud, then-president of Champagne Louis Roederer, Roederer Estate is a California-based winery in Anderson Valley, Mendocino County.
Experience 6-Hour Private Wine Country Tour of Napa in Lincoln MKT Limo (up to 8 people)
The estate spans 600 acres, with around 200 dedicated to growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, the primary varietals used in their estate-bottled sparkling wines.
Roederer Estate is the California arm of the famous Champagne house Louis Roederer, known for producing some of the best sparkling wines in the region, including their award-winning L’Ermitage Brut.
Roederer’s attention to detail and dedication to traditional winemaking techniques has earned them a reputation as one of the top sparkling wine producers in the United States.
Experience Full-day Private San Francisco to Napa Valley Tour by Luxury Car
In 1982, Roederer bought a 580-acre parcel of land in Anderson Valley and planted their first grapes in 1984, marking a landmark event in the history of Anderson Valley winemaking.
In 1988, they released their first U.S.-made bubbly, which received rave reviews. To this day, Roederer’s sparkling wines are made from grapes grown exclusively on their estate.
Private Guided Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour and Tasting
Roederer Estate uses sustainable farming practices, and its grapes are hand-harvested, and whole-cluster pressed, ensuring the highest quality grapes for their wines. Roederer Estate’s dedication to crafting exceptional sparkling wines has not gone unnoticed; they have won several awards and accolades.
Key takeaway: Roederer Estate has cemented its place in California’s winemaking history by producing exceptional sparkling wines with a dedication to traditional winemaking techniques and sustainable farming practices. Roederer Estate’s sparkling wines are worth trying if you’re a wine enthusiast or looking for a great bottle to celebrate a special occasion.
3. Lula Cellars
Photo credit: Lula Cellars
Lula Cellars, a boutique winery in the heart of the Anderson Valley, is known for its handcrafted Pinot Noir wines. Founded in 2010 by Jeff Hansen, a former commercial photographer turned winemaker, the winery produces small lots of different grape varieties from sustainably farmed vineyards in Mendocino County.
Explore Napa Valley’s Best Wine Tour with Local Expert
Lula Cellars has earned numerous accolades and awards for its wines, including a 93-point rating from Wine Enthusiast for its 2017 Costa Vineyard Pinot Noir. The winery is situated in the “Deep End” of the Anderson Valley, which is renowned for its exceptional grape-growing conditions.
The winery sources grapes from their estate vineyards, including the Lula Vineyard and Rescue Block, as well as other notable single-vineyard sites within the Anderson Valley.
Experience 6-Hour Private Limousine Wine Country Tour of Napa or Sonoma
In addition to wine tastings, Lula Cellars offers visitors various experiences, such as vineyard tours. Guests can also enjoy picnics on the property with pre-ordered picnic baskets.
Key takeaway: If you want a unique wine-tasting experience, look no further than Lula Cellars, a hidden gem in the Anderson Valley wine scene, celebrated for its dedication to producing world-class wines that capture the essence of the region.
4. Goldeneye Winery
Photo credit: Goldeneye Winery
Located in the scenic Anderson Valley AVA, Goldeneye Winery was established in 1996 by the Duckhorn Vineyards founders, Dan and Margaret Duckhorn.
Experience 8 Hours Napa Valley and Sonoma Tour For 14 Passenger in Mercedes Limo Sprinter Bus
They aimed to create a winery dedicated to the production of Pinot Noir, and Goldeneye has been doing that with great success ever since. The winery’s name comes from the Goldeneye duck, a native species known for its striking golden eye, which is found in the area. But Pinot Noir has put Goldeneye Winery on the map.
Goldeneye’s Pinot Noir is made from grapes grown in the cool climate of the Anderson Valley, which benefits from the influence of the nearby Mendocino Coast. This unique terroir results in elegant, complex, and age-worthy wines that stand out from those produced in other regions.
Explore Private Vineyard & Coastal Wine Tasting Tour From Los Angeles
Goldeneye Winery offers a range of wine-tasting experiences to suit all palates and budgets. Visitors can enjoy a standard tasting of the winery’s single-vineyard Pinot Noirs, or opt for a more luxurious experience, such as a picnic with wine by the glass, a cheese and charcuterie pairing, or bubbles and caviar for two.
The tasting room at Goldeneye Winery is set against a breathtaking backdrop of rolling hills and vineyards, providing the perfect setting to savor a glass of wine.
Key takeaway: The winery’s commitment to creating an exceptional tasting experience extends to its luxurious Napa-esque approach, making Goldeneye a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.
5. Toulouse Vineyards
Photo credit: Toulouse Vineyards
Nestled in the scenic Anderson Valley, Toulouse Vineyards is a family-owned winery producing exceptional wines since its establishment in 2001. The winery has built a reputation for its high-quality offerings focusing on Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, Riesling, rosé, and sparkling wine.
Experience 6-Hour Private Limousine Wine Country Tour of Napa or Sonoma
The picturesque Anderson Valley of Mendocino County provides the perfect setting for Toulouse Vineyards to grow grapes. The area’s rustic charm adds to the experience of visiting the winery. The name of the vineyard, Toulouse, was chosen to pay homage to the owners’ love for France and its culture.
Toulouse Vineyards allows visitors to taste its signature wines at the tasting room on the property. Wine enthusiasts can indulge in five or six different wines, depending on the season. The winery is open to visitors by appointment for tastings and tours, providing an intimate and personalized experience.
Uncover Napa Valley’s Best Wine Tour with Local Expert
Wine club members enjoy exclusive discounts, pre-release wines, and invitations to exclusive events, providing an exceptional wine-tasting experience.
Key takeaway: Toulouse Vineyards is a family-owned winery in Philo, California. Visitors can enjoy tastings and tours by appointment, purchase wine online, or become wine club members for exclusive benefits. With its beautiful location and exceptional wines, Toulouse Vineyards is a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast.
6. Baxter Winery
Photo credit: Baxter Winery
Located on a scenic ridge-top above the Anderson Valley in Northern California lies Baxter Winery, a family-owned winery producing some of the region’s best Pinot Noir wines.
Experience Full-day Private San Francisco to Napa Valley Tour by Luxury Car
With its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the vineyard enjoys the cool climate necessary for growing premium Pinot Noir grapes. Baxter Winery’s focus on quality over quantity, and its commitment to showcasing the unique terroir of the Anderson Valley, make it a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Baxter Winery’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines are renowned for their earthy tones and lean structure, reflecting the cool-climate region’s characteristics. The winery’s sleek, modern tasting room offers a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, allowing visitors to taste and purchase their single-vineyard wines.
From Los Angeles: Experience Private Vineyard & Coastal Wine Tasting Tour
A visit to Baxter Winery’s tasting room is a must for anyone driving down Highway 128, especially those interested in learning more about winemaking. The knowledgeable and experienced staff at Baxter Winery tend to get more in-depth with descriptions of the production process than what you might find at other destinations.
Visitors can learn about the unique qualities of each wine and the techniques used to produce them. The tasting room is open Thursday through Monday by appointment, allowing visitors to experience the winery’s unique terroir in a personalized setting.
Indulge in 8-Hours Private Limo (Up To 8 Person) Wine Tour of Napa Valley from San Francisco
Baxter Winery’s owner, Phillip Baxter, personally oversees the production of each wine, ensuring that they meet the highest standards. In addition to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Baxter also produces wines from some Italian grape varieties.
Key takeaway: Baxter Winery is a hidden gem in Anderson Valley that Pinot Noir lovers should not miss. From their commitment to showcasing the region’s unique terroir to their knowledgeable and experienced staff, Baxter Winery is a must-visit destination for wine lovers looking to experience some of the best Pinot Noir wines that Anderson offers Valley has to offer.
7. Phillips Hill Winery
Photo credit: Phillips Hill Winery
In the heart of Anderson Valley, is the Phillips Hill Winery, a small artisanal winery specializing in terroir-driven Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Gewurztraminer. The winery is owned and operated by Toby Hill, a native Californian and grandson of a grape grower.
From Los Angeles: Private Vineyard & Coastal Wine Tasting Tour Trip
Phillips Hill Winery’s tasting room is in a rustic former apple-dryer barn dating back to the 1880s. The weathered redwood building may appear fragile, but it is entirely safe and arguably one of Anderson Valley’s coolest wine-tasting venues.
The rickety staircase leading to the tasting room only adds charm. The barn is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including a babbling creek, willow trees, redwoods, and fruit orchards. In the summer, tastings can take place outside, adding to the rustic charm of the experience.
Uncover Small-Group Vintage Wine Country Tour to Sonoma and Napa
The wines offered by Phillips Hill Winery are some of the most elegant and consistent in Anderson Valley. The winery comes from several of Mendocino County’s top Pinot Noir vineyards and produces a few killer white wines.
However, these tend to sell out quickly. The vineyard is ten miles from the ocean and five miles from Boonville, California, allowing for ideal growing conditions and a unique terroir.
Experience 8-Hour Private, Customized Wine Tour up to 6 Guests Napa Valley & Sonoma
Reservations are required to experience the unique charm of Phillips Hill Winery’s tasting room. The winery offers a wine club that delivers three bottles of wine twice a year.
Key takeaway: Phillips Hill Winery is a hidden gem in Anderson Valley, offering a unique and rustic-tasting experience that is not to be missed. Their wines are of the highest quality and are an excellent representation of the region’s terroir. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a casual drinker, visiting Phillips Hill Winery is an experience worth having.
Conclusion
Located about 100 miles north of San Francisco lies Anderson Valley, a picturesque sub-region in Mendocino County, California. Surrounded by tree-studded mountains, this patchwork of vineyards, orchards, farms, and ranches provides a breathtaking backdrop to this picture-perfect setting.
Compared to the neighboring wine regions of Napa and Sonoma, Mendocino County wineries offer a quieter and more intimate experience. Despite the laid-back atmosphere, these wineries are renowned for their top-quality wines and warm hospitality.
A visit to Anderson Valley is worth the journey, especially if you’re from the Mendocino coast. The drive from the water’s edge to the valley floor is awe-inspiring and will undoubtedly leave you in awe.
Wine lovers will find Anderson Valley a great destination to explore some of the best wineries in the state. This region boasts a diverse range of wineries, from small, family-owned operations to large-scale producers, each with unique personality and winemaking style.
The area is particularly famous for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wine production, but it’s the high-quality Alsatian varieties, like Riesling and Gewurztraminer, that make Anderson Valley stand out.
The cool ocean breeze and fog from the nearby Pacific Ocean and the region’s mountainous terrain create a wide diurnal range. This range helps retain essential acidity while allowing grapes to slowly reach full ripeness, producing a balanced and flavorful wine.
The convenient location of Anderson Valley, along the Pacific coastline, makes it an excellent weekend getaway from San Francisco. The scenic drive alone is worth the trip, taking in dramatic coastal views and winding through mystical Redwood forests. You can also enjoy farm-fresh cheese and seafood that pair perfectly with the local wines.
While visiting, be prepared to unplug and live in the present, as Anderson Valley can feel somewhat remote. The views of this cool, foggy, and forested region make it worth the drive over the notorious switchbacks of Highway 28.
So whether you’re a wine lover or just seeking a peaceful getaway, Anderson Valley has something for everyone.
*Please note that some links are set up through affiliate programs, meaning Wine travel gets referral credits if you purchase these items via our links at no additional cost to you.
