California Wines
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About California Wines
California is celebrated for its geographic diversity, the cooling influence of its 800 miles of coastline and its abundant sunshine—elements central to making the state a premier wine region.
Since the late 19th century, the land stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Sierra Foothills and from Oregon to the Mexican border, has been prized and vine-studded. After the repeal of Prohibition, California’s wine industry grew exponentially: it is now the fourth largest producer of wine in the world and the largest winemaking state in the United States.
Winemaking
In an ever-changing wine landscape, California is widely regarded as a pioneer and an innovator. The sustainable agriculture movement in California has never been stronger: energy and water conservation have taken front stage in a state where most wineries are family owned and operated, and vineyards are passed down from generation to generation.
The changes in vineyard and winery practices mirror changes in the bottle as well: the state has developed a reputation for balanced wines across multiple styles from more than 135 AVAs that highlight and celebrate the complexities of California’s rich terroir.
Important Grape Varieties
With California’s range of climates, soils and elevations, there are vineyard sites suited to nearly every grape variety in the world.
While California’s “classic” varieties arguably made wine a household item in the United States—Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Merlot—many other grape varieties are playing an increasingly important role in the California wine industry.
For reds, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, Sangiovese, Barbera, Tempranillo, and others are making waves, while there is great appreciation for the ageability of wines made from Syrah and Zinfandel – considered California’s heritage grape.
Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Semillon, Grenache Blanc, and many other white varietal plantings have increased in recent years, giving winemakers in California the opportunity to craft balanced whites and blends that pair well with the state’s diverse culinary influences.
California winemakers have heard the worldwide call for rosé and answered with exciting rosés of all shades. The state is also an important producer of sparkling wine made in the traditional method.
Best Vintages
2014—For many regions in California, namely Napa, Sonoma, Santa Cruz, and Santa Barbara, 2014 was a notable vintage. While drought conditions resulted in lower than average yields, overall quality remained very high, while several perfectly timed showers helped relieve vine (and winemaker) stress.
2013—A vintage that was as close to perfect for most regions in California, particularly in Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, and Santa Barbara, which all saw long growing seasons. Growers reported some of the best fruit they had ever seen; the resulting wines can age for many years more.
2012—Perhaps the most stunning vintage in recent memory, winemakers in 2012 witnessed quality and quantity across the board in a growing season that saw neither heat wave nor heavy rains. It has proved to be one of the most collectible vintages in the last decade.
2010—Made in one of the coldest vintages in recent memory, wines from 2010 have proved elegant and harmonious after a few years’ ageing—evidence that even in cooler vintages, California wines will shine.