About
Cool-climate wines shaped by ocean, fog, and the rugged beauty of the Sonoma Coast.
Where Land Meets Sea
Founded in 2001, Sonoma Coast Vineyards was born from a deep connection to the Pacific Ocean and a belief in the power of place. Just five miles from the coast, our vineyards sit in one of California’s most dramatically cool growing regions — where wind, fog, and rocky soils define the character of every vintage.
This is not an easy place to farm. The maritime climate demands patience, precision, and restraint. But from this edge-of-the-continent tension comes clarity: vibrant cool-climate wines crafted on the coast, shaped by natural acidity, layered texture, and quiet strength.
We work with a small group of dedicated growers across the Sonoma Coast AVA, sourcing from sites defined by thin, rocky soils and steady ocean influence. High-density plantings and sustainable farming practices allow the vines to struggle just enough — yielding wines of balance, freshness, and expressive structure.
Our focus remains singular: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blancs that reflect the true character of this wild and beautiful coastline.
Our Vineyards
Across the Sonoma Coast AVA, our vineyards are shaped by their proximity to the Pacific—where fog, wind, and rocky soils define a demanding yet expressive growing environment.
We source from a select range of sites that reflect the diversity of the coast. In the southern Sonoma Coast, vineyards such as Ramal and Champlin yield wines of brightness and freshness, shaped by persistent marine influence. Further inland, in the Russian River Valley, sites like Shiloh and Winner’s Circle offer elegance and richer flavor expression, while maintaining coastal structure and balance.
Despite their differences, all sites share the challenges of cool-climate farming: slow ripening, low yields, and soils that encourage depth and concentration. Every vineyard we work with is 100% certified sustainable, reflecting a shared commitment to long-term stewardship of the land.
The result is a collection of wines that capture both the range and the identity of the Sonoma Coast—defined by energy, texture, and a clear sense of place.
The Winemaker
Shaped by a lifelong, hands-on upbringing in Sonoma County vineyards, Darrell Holbrook brings an instinctive mastery of balance, timing, and restraint to his winemaking. Mentored by winemaking icon David Ramey, he has spent more than 30 years crafting wines exclusively in Sonoma.
At Sonoma Coast Vineyards, fruit is picked for natural freshness, then carefully fermented and aged with thoughtful oak integration to build texture, depth, and harmony. The result is wines where acidity, fruit, and barrel influence work together—expressive, composed, and true to the character of the Sonoma Coast.
Community
Rooted in Coast & Community