Mendocino County has garnered national attention as it clinches the title of Wine Enthusiast’s 2024 American Wine Region of the Year. This accolade recognizes the region's vast, stunning landscapes and unwavering commitment to organic and regenerative viticulture. Celebrated for its rich history and diverse terroir, Mendocino's influence in the wine industry is steadily growing, both domestically and internationally.
Acknowledged as one of California's most distinctive and eco-friendly wine regions, Mendocino's winemaking and sustainability initiatives, coupled with its tight-knit community of winegrowers, have made it a prominent choice for wine enthusiasts seeking unique experiences. Mendocino's winemakers have long been pioneers in organic farming, a commitment now solidified with Wine Enthusiast’s recognition.
Spanning roughly 2.5 million acres, with 15,000 acres dedicated to grape cultivation, Mendocino County hosts 100 wineries. Its exceptional geography, flanked by the Pacific Ocean and Mayacamas mountain range, boasts the perfect climate for viticulture. The county features 12 distinct American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), including cool coastal vineyards and sun-kissed inland valleys. These diverse microclimates nurture a wide array of varietals such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel, with the Anderson Valley being particularly famed for its annual Pinot Noir festival.
A delegation of Mendocino vintners alongside Mendocino Wine Growers Incorporated and Visit Mendocino representatives will accept this prestigious award at the Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Award Gala in San Francisco in January 2025.
We’re incredibly proud of Mendocino County’s achievement and thrilled to celebrate alongside our winegrowers community! Their dedication and passion continue to elevate our region's reputation. If you're looking to experience firsthand the exceptional flavors that make Mendocino a standout destination for wine lovers, come on down to Cucina Verona in Fort Bragg and try our premium local wines including our very own Costa Vineyards Pinot Noir. Click here to make a reservation.