From around the world

United States

California's ambition plus a fast-rising cool-climate frontier.

Wine history

Spanish missionaries planted vines in California in the eighteenth century; a boom followed the Gold Rush, then Prohibition destroyed the industry almost entirely. Recovery came slowly until 1976, when Napa wines beat the French in the blind-tasted Judgment of Paris and changed the world's perception overnight.

Major Wine Regions

Napa Valley
Sonoma County
Willamette Valley
Columbia Valley
Finger Lakes
Santa Barbara

Important Grape Varieties

Cabernet Sauvignon
Chardonnay
Pinot Noir
Zinfandel
Merlot
Riesling

Major Wine Styles

Opulent Napa Cabernet
Cool-climate Oregon Pinot Noir
Rich barrel-fermented Chardonnay
Old-vine Zinfandel

Food Pairings

Grilled ribeye
Cedar-plank salmon
Barbecued ribs
Roast turkey
Aged cheddar

Notable wines

Screaming Eagle
Opus One
Ridge Monte Bello
Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve
Harlan Estate

Recognisable brands

Robert Mondavi
Josh Cellars
Kendall-Jackson
Caymus
Duckhorn