Chalk Hill

Chalk Hill was one of the earliest appellations established in Sonoma County, thanks to the efforts of Rodney Strong and other Sonoma Wineries. The name "Chalk Hill' refers to the chalky white ash that dominates the soil, remnants of volcanic activity millions of years ago. Stretching northeast from the town of Windsor, the Chalk Hill appellation benefits from Russian River silts as well as a warmer, drier climate than the appellations in western Sonoma County. The well draining chalky hillsides of this Sonoma Wine Country appellation are particularly suited to the cultivation of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc are common as well.

Chalk Hill is also home to an African game preserve, specialty nurseries and a private Olympic-class Equestrian arena (built by a local winery owner), making it a unique appellation to visit on San Francisco wine country tours.

Chalk Hill wineries that offer winery tours and wine tasting to the public are: Limerick Lane, Chateau Felice, and Christopher Creek. A San Francisco wine tour to Chalk Hill averages around 5-8 hours depending on the number of wineries visited, the depth of each winery tour and other vista stops along the way.