The Russian River Valley is the heart of the Sonoma County wine growing region. Today, it’s best known for producing elegant Chardonnay and fine-tuned Pinot Noir, but it also has some of California’s oldest Zinfandel vineyards and numerous other varieties. The Russian River Valley is home to some of California’s finest wineries, many of which are small and family-run. We’ve visited the Russian River Valley several times over the years and written numerous articles and reports on the producers and their wines. The first part of our most recent report (#109), The Vines and Wines of the Russian River Valley, puts the focus on the region’s varied terroir, its outstanding vineyards and wineries, and the new generation assuming the responsibility for maintaining the Russian River Valley’s fine wine reputation. The second part of the report profiles two dozen of the top producers and reviews their wines. Click on the PDF to download the full report.