Is Sonoma or Napa Valley better?

Visiting Sonoma Valley Napa might win on being more expensive, but Sonoma is certainly more expansive, spread out, and laid-back. (People often say Sonoma is “less commercialized” than Napa.) It’s almost double the size of Napa, and grows far more grapes than Napa in a variety of conditions.

Are Napa wines better than Sonoma?

Napa is also the best choice for foodies who want to indulge in high-end culinary experiences, while Sonoma awaits visitors who prefer dishes made with simple, seasonal ingredients. Napa feels more sophisticated and Sonoma more authentic, but a trip to either is what you make of it.

Is Sonoma cooler than Napa?

Generally speaking, Sonoma is cooler than Napa, especially in the northern, southern and coastal areas of the AVA, resulting from two weather systems: The Petaluma Gap, which draws in a maritime influence from the north courtesy of the Pacific Ocean; and the San Pablo Bay, funneling chilled air and fog into the valley …

What are the best California Cabernets?

Who Are the Top-Rated California Cabernet Producers?

• Abreu Vineyards.
• Araujo Estate Wines.
• Bevan Cellars.
• BOND.
• Bryant Family Vineyard.
• Caymus Vineyards.
• Chappellet Winery.
• Chateau Montelena.

How far apart are Napa and Sonoma?

14 miles
The city of Napa and the city of Sonoma are only 14 miles apart, but with Sonoma County and Napa Valley showcasing their own unique climatic conditions, landscapes, and wine styles, the two regions tend to feel much further away from each other.

Is Napa or Sonoma closer to San Francisco?

The town of Sonoma is about 75 minutes from SF, the town of Napa is about 90 minutes. Both valleys stretch further north from those “anchor” towns. And the Pacific coast is about an hour west of the town of Sonoma.

What is the best year for California cabernet?

Another strong decade for great cabernet in California. 2001, 2002, 2005, 2007 and 2009 are considered the best vintages, producing stunning, complex red wines. But, 2006 should not be overlooked, as it created cabernets that are concentrated and age-worthy.

What is the highest rated cabernet?

Top 10 Cabernet Sauvignons Rated 90+

• Austin Hope 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles); $50, 97 points.
• Corison 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (St.
• Larkmead 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley); $135, 97 points.
• Lail 2016 Blueprint Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley); $80, 96 points.

What is the best time of year to visit Sonoma?

The best time to visit Sonoma is between June and October when the weather is at its finest, with high temps hovering in the mid-80s in June and the upper 70s in October. Unfortunately, this time of year is also when the crowds are the thickest and hotel rates are at their highest.

What is the best year for wine?

In looking at French Pinot Noirs, the vintages considered the best include 2014, 2010, 2008 and 1996. 2010, in particular, is exemplified by a very clean and pure grape that still exudes ripe fruit flavors that are perfectly balanced, without being too rich or powerful.

Is 2014 California a good year for cabernet sauvignon?

For California, the 2014 vintage was small but fantastic. The region enjoyed a long, steady growing season with few hiccups despite a large earthquake in August. The relatively steady and uneventful growing season led to an early harvest. In general, the resulting wines were extremely good with some starry standouts.

What country is Sonoma in?

Sonoma is a historically significant city in Sonoma Valley , Sonoma County, California, USA, surrounding its historic town plaza, a remnant of the town’s Mexican colonial past. It was the capital of the short-lived California Republic .

Is Cabernet a red wine?

For many red wine lovers, Cabernet Sauvignon (or “Cab”) is the king of wines. The Cabernet grape typically produces big-bodied red wines well suited for aging.

Is Cabernet Sauvignon a white or red wine?

Cabernet Sauvignon is a rich bodied, red wine made from the Cabernet Sauvignon variety of grapes. Chardonnay is a white wine made from a green-skinned grape variety called well, Chardonnay.

Is Cabernet Sauvignon Washington’s premier grape?

Cabernet Sauvignon has firmly planted itself as the premiere grape of Washington. We look at a string of recent vintages and show you the wines to know.