As other large wine events scale back, Anderson Valley reinforces the importance of gathering growers, media, trade, and consumers together in the vineyards
Philo, CA – April 6, 2026
The Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival returns June 12–14, 2026, marking its 27th year with new programming, a new venue for its Friday night BBQ, and continued commitment to bringing media, trade, and consumers together in the vineyards of one of California’s most respected cool-climate Pinot Noir regions.
At a time when many large wine events have scaled back or dissolved, Anderson Valley continues to invest in these important in-person experiences that connect guests directly with the farmers and winemakers behind the wines.
Highlights for 2026 include:
Half-Day Vineyard Seminar (Friday morning)
A forward-looking program exploring topics ranging from wildfire risk and salmonids in the Navarro River watershed to a live AI vineyard monitoring demonstration by Vineyard Robotics, reflecting the region’s balance of innovation and stewardship.
NEW – Founding Winery Pioneer Seminar & Library Tasting (Friday afternoon)
Held at the Anderson Valley Historical Museum and led by historian Allan Green, and founder of Greenwood Ridge Vineyards, this rare tasting features cellar selections from pioneering producers including Handley Cellars, Husch Vineyards, Greenwood Ridge Vineyards, and Navarro Vineyards, offering perspective on the early days of Anderson Valley wine.
NEW LOCATION – Casual Sunset BBQ at Anderson Valley Brewing Company (Friday evening)
The festival’s opening night gathering moves to the valley’s community hub, where new owner Jason McConnell, former co-founder of Rivino Estate Vineyard and Winery, has revitalized the Beer Park with live music, lawn games, and a welcoming event atmosphere. Known for creating memorable gatherings, McConnell brings fresh energy to this relaxed evening of local food, special pours, and conversation with winemakers and his brew master.
Grand Tasting at Scharffenberger Cellars (Saturday)
More than forty wineries pour current releases in a redesigned tent layout offering a refreshed guest experience in the vineyards. The VIP Bubble Lounge remains one of the weekend’s most sought-after events and is nearing capacity.
Winery Open Houses (Sunday)
Participating wineries host special tastings and experiences that allow guests to connect personally with the people and places that define Anderson Valley’s close-knit wine community.
For 27 years, the Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival has created opportunities for discovery, education, and connection in a region known for collaboration and distinctive coastal Pinot Noir.
Schedule and tickets: https://pinotfest.avwines.com/
Media & trade partners are invited to attend the weekend events. Complimentary credentials are available upon request and availability.
The Anderson Valley Winegrowers Association (AVWA) was founded in 1983 – the same year as the appellation. Made up of 24 vineyard, 68 winery and 58 associate members, the nonprofit organization operates with the goal of supporting the region’s premier grape growers and wineries, as well as promoting the region’s distinguished wines. In addition to acting as a resource for its members, the association aims to better its community by donating funds yearly to local nonprofit organizations.
~ Barbara Barrielle, Public Relations
press@avwines.com
~ Courtney DeGraff, Executive Director
courtney@avwines.com
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