In the 1800s, the Mendocino County wine industry began gaining attention due to the unique climate and soil conditions in the region. Despite being smaller than its neighboring regions, Sonoma County and Napa Valley, Mendocino County has established itself as one of the top wine producing regions in the state of California.
History of Mendocino County Wine Industry
Mendocino County's wine industry dates back to the 1850s, when European settlers first arrived in the region to prospect for gold. These settlers soon discovered that the region's climate and soil conditions were ideal for growing grapes. The abundant sunshine, cool coastal breezes, and well-draining mineral-rich soils provided the perfect environment for growing high-quality wine grapes.
Initially, most of the wine produced in Mendocino County was sold locally or to nearby regions, such as San Francisco, where demand for wine was rapidly increasing. In the late 1800s, as wine production increased in the region, the Mendocino County wine industry began to gain recognition and awards at major wine competitions, including the Paris Exposition in 1889.
During the Prohibition era, vineyards in Mendocino County, like those throughout California, were forced to halt production. However, some vineyards found ways to stay operational by selling grapes to home winemakers or converting their vineyards to other crops.
After the repeal of Prohibition, the Mendocino County wine industry resurged and continued to grow throughout the 20th century. The modern era of winemaking in Mendocino County began in the 1960s when small, family-owned wineries started to emerge.
In the 1970s, commercial wineries, such as Fetzer Vineyards, began to establish themselves in the region. These wineries helped to put Mendocino County on the map as a producer of high-quality wines.
Today, the Mendocino County wine industry has over 5700 acres of vineyards and is home to more than 40 wineries. The region's unique climate and geography have helped to establish it as a key player in California's wine industry.
The Unique Climate of Mendocino County
The wine grapes grown in Mendocino County benefit from a unique climate that is influenced by both the coastal marine layer and the inland elevation of the region. The marine layer cools the region, while the elevation allows for greater sun exposure and temperature fluctuations.
This unique climate allows for a longer growing season, which results in a lower yield and higher quality of grapes. Mendocino County is known for producing wines with high levels of acidity, balanced tannins, and intense fruit character.
Growing Grape Varieties in Mendocino County
Mendocino County is known for growing a variety of grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. The region is also home to some lesser-known grape varieties, such as Trousseau, Vermentino, and Grenache.
Pinot Noir is the most widely planted grape variety in Mendocino County, accounting for over 30% of the region's vineyards. The cool climate and diverse soil types make Mendocino County an ideal region for growing Pinot Noir grapes.
Zinfandel is another popular grape variety grown in Mendocino County, particularly in the warmer inland regions. The region's Zinfandel grapes are known for producing rich, full-bodied wines with flavors of blackberry and spice.
Sustainable Winemaking in Mendocino County
The Mendocino County wine industry has been a leader in sustainable winemaking practices. Many wineries in the region employ eco-friendly practices, such as utilizing solar power and water conservation methods.
In addition, Mendocino County has a number of certified organic and biodynamic wineries. These methods of farming rely on natural methods to cultivate grapes and promote healthy soil and biodiversity.
Conclusion
The Mendocino County wine industry has a rich history and has grown to become one of the top wine producing regions in California. With its unique climate, diverse soil types, and commitment to sustainability, Mendocino County is sure to continue producing high-quality wines for years to come.