WINE COUNTRY, Calif. – In support of residents and businesses impacted by the devastating wildfires in Napa and Sonoma counties last October, AAA Northern California is using its annual announcement of Four and Five Diamond rated restaurant and hotels to bring attention to some favorite Wine Country getaways.

"These AAA Diamond properties and their communities were ground zero for one of the worst natural disasters in California's history," said John Moreno, manager of public affairs for AAA Northern California. “As these communities rebuild, AAA is reminding people that a great way to help that recovery is to support their local economy, and tourism is an essential component of their economic engine."

The region is home to two Five Diamond restaurants: the French Laundry (Yountville) and The Restaurant at Meadowood (St. Helena).

Only 68 restaurants across the nation qualified for the exclusive Five Diamond rating, which requires establishments to consistently provide leading-edge cuisine of the finest ingredients, uniquely prepared by an acclaimed chef and served by expert service staff in extraordinary surroundings.

Sonoma County is home to several Four Diamond restaurants, including Santé (Sonoma) and Dry Creek Kitchen (Healdsburg). In Santa Rosa, visitors can stay in the Vintners Inn, which has kept its Four Diamond rating since 1988.

“Spring is the perfect time to visit Sonoma County. The hills are green, there is mustard in the vineyards and the beaches are beautiful. We invite those who know and love Sonoma County to come rediscover their favorite places and find new spots to enjoy,” said Tim Zahner, COO of Sonoma County Tourism.

Napa County is also home to many Four Diamond hotels and restaurants, including Solage (Calistoga), known for its stunning architecture, which first received the rating in 2013. Napa County tourism leaders said there was a misconception that the region had been decimated by the fires, which caused an estimated $3 billion in damage. As that perception fades, tourists are beginning to return.

“We greatly appreciate the support we have received from those who have visited the Napa Valley since the October 2017 wildfires," said Clay Gregory, president and CEO for Visit Napa Valley. "Thanks to visitor support, occupancy was 6.8 percent higher in December 2017 from the previous year, and total hotel revenue was up by 9.2 percent. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to experience the Napa Valley spirit in person and see for themselves that our valley is just as beautiful as ever."

For a full list of Five Diamond and Four Diamond rated hotels and restaurants, visit www.AAA.com/diamonds/diamond-awards.