Mendocino County Wine: A North Coast Original

With over 100 wineries and 13 unique AVAs, Mendocino County wine is shaped by cool coastal breezes, dramatic landscapes and fiercely independent winemakers. From the craggy Pacific coastline to forested mountain ridges and sun-drenched inland valleys, Mendocino County is one of the state’s most geographically diverse wine regions. 

What sets Mendocino County wine apart isn’t just its range of varieties or picturesque landscapes, but also the collective ethos behind the wine. This region is where small, family-run wineries thrive, sustainability is a way of life and winegrowing is guided as much by tradition as innovation. 

Discover California Wines is an initiative by Wine Institute, an association of more than 1,000 California wineries and wine-related businesses. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Mendocino County wine truly special, from its deep roots and old vines to its sustainable farming practices and must-visit tasting rooms.

The county even has the only non-contiguous AVA in the U.S.: Mendocino Ridge, which includes only vineyards planted above 1,200 feet in elevation and within 10 miles of the ocean.

Thanks to its mix of foggy valleys, high-elevation ridges and warm inland basins, Mendocino growers cultivate an impressive 47 grape varieties. Chardonnay leads plantings, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot. White aromatic varieties like Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Gris thrive on the cooler western side. Meanwhile, the inland “banana belt” provides the warmth for Mediterranean reds and Rhône-style blends.

Sustainability in Every Sip

With a full 25% of its grape production certified organic, Mendocino County boasts one-third of all certified organic wine grape acreage in California. And the region also leads in other areas, from biodynamic farming to zero-waste winery operations and clean energy initiatives.

Pioneering wineries, like Bonterra Organic Estates and Frey Vineyards have made sustainability their core mission.  Bonterra Organic Estates is the largest producer of organic wine in the U.S. and is a California Certified Sustainable Winery. Frey Vineyards was the country’s first certified organic winery and later became the first to be certified Biodynamic©.

Many wineries in Mendocino have also adopted advanced waste-reduction systems. Grape pomace is composted and returned to the vineyards to enrich the soil. Cardboard, metal and glass are recycled with intention. 

Wineries often conduct solid waste audits to identify areas for improvement and set zero-waste goals. Employees play a crucial role in this process. Trained to sort and recycle properly, they ensure sustainability efforts reach every part of the operation.

Importantly, these efforts are not just about environmental stewardship; they’re part of a broader commitment to quality and transparency. Sustainable practices contribute to soil health, vine longevity and more expressive wines. And for many winemakers, it’s about creating wines that are not only delicious but reflect their place of origin and their values.

Nothing pairs better with Mendocino County wine than a flavorful, easy-to-make appetizer like Crab and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms. Serve with a local Pinot Gris or Pinot Noir for a perfect California-inspired bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grapes is Mendocino County wine known for?
Mendocino County wine is celebrated for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and aromatic whites like Riesling and Gewürztraminer.

How many AVAs are in Mendocino County?
There are 13 official AVAs in Mendocino County, spanning coastal, mountainous and inland zones. Each offers a unique terroir and expression.

Is Mendocino County wine sustainable?
Mendocino leads the U.S. in certified organic winegrape acreage and is home to many pioneering sustainable and biodynamic wineries.

What makes Mendocino County wine unique?
Its mix of ocean-influenced and warm inland climates, small-scale vineyards, and commitment to sustainability give Mendocino County wine a distinct identity rooted in place and purpose.