The Mendocino AVA in Mendocino County is located inland from the Pacific coast, but is still close enough to receive some of the ocean's cooling effects. The terroir varies across this divided region, with Mendocino forming the backdrop for many smaller AVAs as well as some which are pending; this means that not many wineries remain within the Mendocino appellation.
The diversity in growing conditions within this broad region is reflected in the range of wine styles produced. The headwaters of the Russian river are located in the Potter Valley to the north-east, with substantial plantings of vines lining the riverbanks all the way to Sonoma County. Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah and Petit Sirah are the prominent reds, although the cool-climate Pinot Noir also produces impressive still and sparkling wines. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are some of the most widely planted white varieties. (© Proprietary Content, Wine-Searcher.) The sub-regions have their own specialist varieties.