The Russian River Valley runs southwest from Healdsburg toward Guerneville and the coast. The marine fog that pushes in through the Petaluma Gap each afternoon keeps the valley significantly cooler than Napa, creating ideal conditions for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This is where Williams Selyem, Rochioli, and Gary Farrell built their reputations, and the benchmark wines from those wineries remain among California's best.
The valley is more spread out and heavily forested than Dry Creek — redwood stands shade the river bottom while vineyards climb the hillsides above. Westside Road and Eastside Road run parallel to each other on either bank of the Russian River and are lined with small wineries and occasional fruit stands. The pace is slower here than around Healdsburg's plaza; you'll often find yourself alone with a winemaker at a small tasting table.
Kayaking and canoe rentals are available at Burke's Canoe Trips near Forestville for paddling the river through redwoods — an entirely different way to spend a day in Sonoma wine country.