SONOMA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA — Sonoma County is rooted in the land that grows organic wine grapes, produce, artisan cheeses, and meats. It's anchored to the bountiful Pacific Ocean that offers up freshly caught seafood. Every bite or sip gives you a taste of this rich destination that has depth and complexity — sustainably. 

First 100% Sustainable Wine Region 

Sonoma County stretches from the Pacific Coast in the west to the Mayacamas Mountains in the east and is home to almost 60,000 acres of vineyards and more than 425 wineries. Within the borders are 18 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs, or appellations), each with its own distinctive characteristics. 

As wine is clearly central to any Sonoma County travel experience, the region is poised to become the nation's first 100 percent certified sustainable wine region by the end of 2019. Sonoma County Winegrape Commission, also known as Sonoma County Winegrowers, created a sustainability program that preserves agriculture and multi-generational family farms.  

Grape farmers and winemakers have been using sustainable practices for generations, knowing a healthy environment grows the best grapes that, in turn, produce the region's world-class wines. Each purchase of a bottle of Sonoma County wine can be done with confidence that it was produced by passionate stewards of the land. Sustainability isn't just “green” talk; growers' efforts are certified by third-party organizations. (sonomawinegrape.org/sustainability) 

Get into the Field: Sonoma County Vineyard Adventures 

Sonoma County Vineyard Adventures are complimentary, self-guided vineyard walks at various wineries throughout this diverse wine region. Enjoy the only agritourism program of its kind and experience a vineyard up close and personal throughout any season. 

Each Vineyard Adventure is unique and perfect for all ages. Walk among the vines and discover each winery's unique story. Learn about the history of the region, the influence of soil types and microclimates, various viticulture techniques, and sustainable farming practices such as the use of wind technology and water conservation. (www.sonomavineyardadventures.com) 

Follow the Fresh: Farms, Markets, Trails 

Sustainable agriculture is the foundation of Sonoma County. Meet farmers at Sonoma County farmers markets and see how local specialties go from the garden to your home. There's a reason Sonoma County is famed for its agricultural bounty — the same climate and soil that produce world-class wines are the building blocks for fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. 

Visit the region's many farmers' markets to get a true sense of place; each are unique and reflect the personality of its community. Discover the infinite variety of local produce, artisan specialties, and heirloom treasures. (www.sonomacounty.com/activities/farms-farmers-markets) 

Experience the delights of western Sonoma County's distinctive hand-crafted cheeses by following the California Cheese Trail. In Sonoma County, it winds through about a hundred miles of canyons, pastures, and oak-covered hills, linking close to 30 farms and creameries. Reserve full tours, cheese tastings, and cheese-making classes, then visit with the farm's goats, cows, sheep, or even water buffalo. (cheesetrail.org) 

At other local farms, you can pick your own flowers, pumpkins, berries or apples, or learn to milk a cow or goat. Just follow the Farm Trail to get started. (farmtrails.org/find-sonoma-grown) 

Beyond Grapes 

Sonoma County  sits at the foundation of sustainable practices and was home to innovators — author Jack London, who pioneered many of the principles that form the foundation of organic farming today; and famed horticulturist Luther Burbank, whose goal was to increase the world's food supply by manipulating the characteristics of plants (his birthday is celebrated in California as Arbor Day and trees are planted in his memory). 

It may be surprising to realize that, though Sonoma County is a world-renowned wine region, only 6% (nearly 60,000 acres) of its total land mass (1 million acres) is planted to grapes. Locals love their great outdoors and want to share it.  

One of California's most diverse natural destinations, Sonoma County offers more than 60 regional and state parks that beckon travelers to hike – or zip line – through redwood forests, paddle along the coast or down rivers, or just sit down and enjoy the sounds of nature and just breathe. (parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov) 

Other organizations make it their missions to preserve the land. The Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District permanently protects more than 117,000 acres of diverse agricultural, natural resource, and scenic open space lands for future generations. (www.sonomaopenspace.org) 

LandPaths fosters a love of the land in Sonoma County. It creates ways for people to experience the beauty, understand the value, and assist in healing the land in their local communities. Take an outdoor adventure with TrekSonoma — three days spent walking or paddling across the local landscape, entirely away from the automobile. Gear will be shuttled, allowing participants to spend the day with only a daypack, celebrating the region's great natural resources. (www.landpaths.org) 

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Experience Sonoma County, where Life Opens Up. Just as wine “opens up” when it's allowed to breathe, Sonoma County inspires visitors to open up to new experiences. Just 30 miles north of San Francisco, Sonoma County is one of California's top food and wine destinations, home to more than 425 wineries ranging from rustic to regal. Hike among towering redwoods, cruise along rugged Pacific coastline, and get to know inviting small towns. Or, just sit back and take it all in. Because here, you're free to go your own way.   

For a free visitors guide or information on hotels, wineries, events, spas, attractions, and dining in Sonoma County, visit www.sonomacounty.com or call 707-522-5800.   

Birgitt Vaughan   
Director of Global Media Relations   
Sonoma County Tourism   
400 Aviation Blvd., Suite 500   
Santa Rosa, CA 95403   
707-522-5826   
bvaughan@sonomacounty.com  

Editors: High-resolution photos can be found at   
sonomacounty.smugmug.com/PhotoLibrary/Whats-New   
Password: SonomaPassion