And as a region with a 150-year winemaking history, many of our chefs and restaurateurs are intimately familiar with our increasingly broad range of Mendocino wines and expertly match them with their dishes. Salmon, reeled in by local fisherman, is the star of the World's Largest Salmon Barbecue in July. July also brings out our County Woolgrowers to the County Fairgrounds in Boonville with a venerable sheepdog competition and lamb barbecue. Farmers markets in Ukiah, Willits, Mendocino, Laytonville, Gualala, Fort Bragg and Boonville showcase the freshest produce. Known as a source of premium ingredients, Mendocino is also a leader in the organic movement for both food and wine.
Wild mushrooms abound, as does a budding industry in cultivated exotic mushrooms.
Small producers package mustards, herbs, apple wreaths, pear preserves, jams, meat marinades, wild rice, pistachios, coffee beans, available in winery tasting rooms and specialty food shops around the county.