Bennett Valley

Recognized as the thirteenth Sonoma County American Viticultural Appellation (AVA) in 2003, Bennett Valley is nestled between three mountainous peaks; Taylor Mountain to the west, Sonoma Mountain to the south, and what are known today as Bennett Peak and Bennett Ridge to the east. For countless years ash accumulated on the valley floor from these volcanic peaks making the land in Bennett Valley a perfect place for growing premium wine grapes.

The climate of Bennett Valley is considered a cool growing zone with greater marine influence due to the proximity of the Crane Canyon/Grange Road wind gap. The result is we get quite a bit of fog in the early morning that greatly contributes to ideal grape growing conditions.

Quality wine growing has a long history in the valley dating back to the mid 1800’s. In 1862 a man named Isaac De Turk grew grapes on land he acquired from James N. Bennett and named his winery Belle Mount.

The appellation consists of only 650 currently planted acres making Bennett Valley one of the smaller appellations in California. The growers have a passionate commitment to quality over quantity that reflects itself in the wines being made from our grapes. The grapes from Bennett valley can be found in some of the finest wines produced in California.

The valley itself is one of the most peaceful, serene and unspoiled of all wine growing regions. Travel guides to describe our valley commonly use words such as “bucolic and pastoral”. The people of the valley have a great respect for this treasure and work on protecting its character and feel.

More Information:

- “Living on the Edge” The NorthBay biz April 2009
- Bennett Valley Grape Growers (BVGG)
- Sonoma County Winegrape Commission
- Map of Bennett Valley Viticultural Area