Russian River Valley Region

Twenty-odd years ago, the beautiful redwood-clad Russian River Valley was an unassuming agricultural area which drew little attention in discerning wine circles. Since then, the cool-climate consciousness that has swept across wine regions from coast to coast has given this low-lying valley and its 10,000 acres of vineyards considerably greater cachet.

Granted official appellation standing in 1983, the Russian River Valley is now one of the most recognized AVA names in America. The appellation is internationally renowned for challenging varieties like Pinot Noir, which excels in this cool climate, yielding highly expressive wines. A lean and restrained style of Chardonnay is also one of the region’s signature wines.

One-sixth of Sonoma County’s total vineyard acreage falls within the Russian River AVA boundaries, with all its vineyards sharing to varying degrees the defining characteristic of cooling fog that is drawn inland from the Pacific each day.

To help you discover this region’s magic for yourself, Planet Wine is proud to offer the distinguished wines of the 5ive Russians winery, whose Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Zinfandel embody the stylistic nuances of the Russian River Valley.