Sonoma County Milestone Celebrations 2016

Several milestones in Sonoma County history are being celebrated in 2016, namely acclaimed American author Jack London, the Wine Road of Northern Sonoma County, the Judgement in Paris, and the Apple Blossom Festival.

Discover Your Call of the Wild – Celebrating the Legacy of Jack London

Some 100 years after his death at his beloved Beauty Ranch in Glen Ellen, California, on Nov. 22, 1916, Jack London's words – and works – still resonate. The internationally renowned writer, thinker, adventurer, social activist, innovator and pioneering farmer is the focus of a yearlong celebration of his life.

During 2016, “Discover Your Call of the Wild at Jack London State Historic Park” in Sonoma Wine Country is an invitation to delve more deeply into London's legacy and explore how it relates to visitors' lives today. Visitors can experience the spectacular 1,400 scenic acres and 29-plus miles of trails at the park, which was once the place Jack roamed and drew his inspiration. Ongoing events will be featured online at www.jacklondonpark.com.

Happy 40th Anniversary to Wine Road

The 40th Ruby Anniversary is a milestone that celebrates the work of the Wine Road, which promotes awareness of the wine regions in Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River valleys. Meander through some of the most picturesque, naturally beautiful countryside in all of California. Wine Road will imbue a fresh sense of discovery to even veteran Wine Country explorerers.

Visitors looking to enhance their experience of the region, partake in one of Wine Road's signature events: Winter Wineland (January), Barrel Tasting (March), and A Wine & Food Affair (November). A complimentary Wine Road map is the key to exploring the glories of the area and is also available online at www.wineroad.com.

40 years ago the Judgement in Paris put California wines on map

By the late 1960s and early 1970s, the quality of some California vintners' wines was outstanding but few took notice. On May 24, 1976, a blind tasting was held in Paris – called the Judgement in Paris – with a panel made up exclusively of French wine experts. After comparing six California Chardonnays with four French Chardonnays, three of the top four were Californian. All nine judges ranked Chateau Montelena the highest. When reds were evaluated, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars was ranked number one. This competition focused a great deal of attention on wines from California. Though the wineries were located in Napa Valley, more than 80 percent of the grapes used in the Chateau Montelena Chardonnay were grown in Sonoma County.

Sebastopol's Apple Blossom Festival and Parade turns 70

The community of Sebastopol will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the annual Apple Blossom Festival and Parade April 16-17. Once known as the Gravenstein Apple Capital of the World, Sebastopol's celebration of apples began in 1966.

The parade showcases everything from prancing horses and school bands to blossom-adorned floats. The two-day festival will feature several children's activities, food, wine, art, and a variety of exhibitors. A special blues festival will take place on Sunday. Find out more at www.appleblossomfest.com.

Sonoma County, located only 30 miles/48 kilometers north of San Francisco, provides a genuine, independent, and adventurous wine country experience, featuring more than 400 wineries, 100-plus organic farms, and 50 miles/80 kilometers of stunning Pacific coast.

For a free visitors guide or information on hotels, wineries, events, spas, attractions, and dining in Sonoma County, visit www.sonomacounty.com or call +1-707-522-5800.