California wine is a reflection of the land where they are produced and of the people who craft them. The soils, the climate, valleys and coastal influences help to develop grapes with exquisite flavors. The winemakers in the various California wine regions have an appreciation for the territory in which they live and work that makes it possible to create palate pleasing world class wines.
The original Spanish pioneers had a large effect on the California wine growers. The Spaniards first planted vineyards in the 18th century as each mission was established. Grapes were needed by the Catholic monks for reigious ceremony as well as basic provision. Early vine cuttings came from Mexico from the common black grape. The original mission grape plantations would primarily use the common black grape or “Mission Grape” as it was often called.
The famous “California Gold Rush” increased the population in the Sonoma and Napa Valleys and some of California’s oldest wineries were started during that period. During this time well known wine companies such as Buena Vista Winery, Charles Krug Winery, Inglenook Winery and Schramsberg Vineyard were founded.
California Wine Zones
There are distinct California wine zones. They are divided into 4 main areas. First, there is the North Coast region that refers to an area north of San Francisco that includes the Sonoma and Napa Valleys as well as Mendocino and Lake County. The Central Coast is the number two region which lies west of San Franicisco stretching down to Santa Barbara, Paso Robles, Santa Maria and Santa Ynez. Third on the list is the South Coast region which denotes the area south of Los Angeles all the way to Mexico which includes the Temecula Valley, Antelope Valley, San Pasqual, Ramona Valley, etc. The central valley areas of the Sierra foothills and Lodi are the fourth section.
Varieties of Grapes and Wines
The types of grapes available in the California wine country is almost as varried as its people. For instance, there are the French, Italian, Spanish grapes and new hybrids springin up each year.
The most familiar grape varieties are the Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot noir, Sauvignon blanc, Syrah and the Zinfandel. They also grow red wine grapes that you may be familiar with such as the Barbera, Grenache, Malbec, Petite Sirah and Sangiovese. They are also known for the white wine grapes of Chenin blanc, Gewurztraminer, Pinot gris,etc.
California Wine Known as “New World Style”
California winemakers produce “Old World” wines as well as their trademark “New World” wines. The temperate and warmer climate in California ripens the grape earlier making for a frutier flavored wine with 13.5% alcohol levels. The oak aged California wine making process produces a wonderful full body taste.
Winning California Wines
The locally treasured California wine has emerged as an international treasure as well. The rest of the world is quickly discovering the treasures of the California wine industry through the wine of the month club. Another wine club worth mentioning is the California wine club which offers offers premium California wines at great pricing.
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This post was written by wine on January 1, 2010
