The Sonoma Mountain AVA is located near the town of Glen Ellen in southern Sonoma County. Named for the mountain range that rises as high as 2400 feet, the Sonoma Mountain AVA is encompassed within the larger Sonoma Valley AVA. Vineyards are planted on steep slopes on the mountain between 400 and 1200 feet, only on the north and east sides of the mountain. Only 800 acres in total are planted, with the majority being Cabernet Sauvignon, while there are also smaller percentages of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir among other varieties. The signature wine is powerful Cabernet Sauvignon with rich, but elegant tannins; the wines are somewhat approachable upon release, but are at their best from age seven to ten. (Wine/Appellations)