Dry Creek Valley

The Zinfandel Capital of the World

You’re in Zin County. Nowhere else in California will you find such an extensive collection of Zinfandels (no, not white Zin) in one region. At only two miles across and sixteen miles long, Dry Creek is one of the smaller AVAs (wine region or American Viticultural Area). However; in this small but mighty valley, you’re bound to find more spice and pepper than in most home kitchens.

Dry Creek is beautiful, a hidden gem nestled between two rows of mountains. It’s a throw-back to the day when Sunday drives were leisurely, the general store was the focal point of the town (and is still the place to grab lunch within the wine regions’ boundaries), and where owners and wine makers still poured the wine for you.

Dry Creek’s climate is similar to the Rhone region of France. During summer time, temperatures can breach the one-hundred degree mark. Dry Creek’s conditions make it a perfect growing region for Zinfandel, Zinfandel and more Zinfandel—the heat loving grape.

If Zin was the valley’s staple wine in the red category, Sauvignon Blanc would be the staple in the white. Yes, you’ll find the Chardonnay dotting the landscape, but overall Sauvignon Blanc reigns supreme in the valley in terms of white wine.  Also expect to find some terrific wines you may have never heard of including Grenache, Sangiovese and Viognier.