Is Sonoma bigger than Napa?

At 70,000 acres, Sonoma is nearly twice the size of Napa and much more spread out. Larger than the state of Rhode Island, it includes nine cities and 13 sub-AVAs. There are about the same number of wineries, but you’ll spend much more time in the car between tastings. You’ll also experience more varied landscapes.

Is Napa hotter than Sonoma?

Both Napa and Sonoma Valleys enjoy a dry, Mediterranean climate, with long, sunny days and cool nights. Depending on where you stand, are either warmer or cooler according to elevation. Both Napa and Sonoma Valleys are close to the cool Pacific, but Sonoma is closer.

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 …

Who produces more wine Napa or Sonoma?

Long story short, Napa is much more developed than Sonoma, still polished, but booming—possibly even growing too fast, with the Napa planning commission approving 23 new wineries per year (as of 2014). But even with all those wineries, Napa produces only 5\% of California’s wines on an annual basis.

Should I stay Napa or Sonoma?

Sonoma has more small and family-owned wineries than the Napa Valley. The Napa Valley is one of the great wine regions of the World. A weekend stay in the Napa Valley will be more expensive than a weekend stay in Sonoma. Sonoma has many more winery picnic areas than does the Napa Valley.

What does Sonoma mean in English?

Sonomanoun. The place name of a town, county and valley in Northern California. Etymology: Native American, variously thought to mean “valley of the moon”, “many moons”, or to derive from tso (the earth) and noma (village).

Is Sonoma better than Napa Valley?

Sonoma is more laid back. Sonoma has more small and family-owned wineries than the Napa Valley. The Napa Valley is one of the great wine regions of the World. Sonoma has many more winery picnic areas than does the Napa Valley.

Is Sonoma or Napa 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.

Which is better Napa or 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 Napa Valley or Sonoma better?

What are Sonoma wines known for?

The appellation is known particularly for its Sauvignon blanc and Zinfandel production. Dry Creek Valley AVA is home to the majority of the Sonoma Gallo vineyards, who established winery facilities in the valley in the early 1990s.

What is the best month to visit Napa Valley?

The best time to visit Napa is August through October or March through May. Napa’s peak tourist season corresponds with the region’s harvest season (August through October). During this busy time, expect crowds and high prices for just about everything, especially accommodations.

What is the difference between Sonoma and Napa?

The basic difference between Napa and Sonoma Valley is that the former is more affluent with bigger and luxurious wineries, while the latter has a more rural feel and is spread out compared to Napa. Sonoma is a more suitable place for those who do not like the crowd too much.

How far is Sonoma from Napa?

There are 9.28 miles from Sonoma to Napa in east direction and 14 miles (22.53 kilometers) by car, following the Napa Road route. Sonoma and Napa are 22 minutes far apart, if you drive non-stop. This is the fastest route from Sonoma, CA to Napa, CA.

What is the best wine in Sonoma Valley?

California’s Sonoma County succeeds with many diverse wines, but Sonoma’s two most renowned wines are Pinot Noir and Zinfandel. Many wine critics believe that the nation’s best Pinot Noirs come from Sonoma’s Russian River Valley.

What is Napa Valley?

Napa Valley AVA. Napa Valley AVA is an American Viticultural Area located in Napa County in California’s Wine Country. Napa Valley is considered one of the premier wine regions in the world. Records of commercial wine production in the region date back to the nineteenth century, but premium wine production dates back only to the 1960s.