An Introduction to California Wines

No winegrowing area in the world has come so far so quickly as California. Thirty years ago we were asking if California wines were entitled to be compared to European wines. Now California wines are available worldwide— exports have increased dramatically in recent years to countries such as Japan, Germany, and England. California produces more than 90 percent of U.S. wine. If the state were a nation, it would be the third leading wine producer in the world!

What are the main viticultural areas of California?

The map on this page should help familiarize you with the winemaking regions. It’s easier to remember them if you divide them into four groups:

North Coast:
Napa County
Sonoma County
Mendocino County
Lake County
Best wines from North Coast: Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot

North Central Coast:
Monterey County
Santa Clara County
Livermore County
Best wines from North Central Coast: Syrah, Grenache, Viognier,
Marsanne, Roussane

South Central Coast:
San Luis Obispo County
Santa Barbara County
Best wines from South Central Coast: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah

San Joaquin Valley:
Known for their jug wines. The phrase jug wine refers to simple, uncomplicated, everyday drinking wine. You are probably familiar with these types of wine: They’re sometimes labeled with a generic name, such as Chablis or Burgundy.

The above post appears in the 2009 edition of the Windows on the World Complete Wine Course by Kevin Zraly, available in bookstores now. Look for the 25th anniversary edition in Fall of 2009. The Windows on the World Complete Wine Course is the world's best-selling, most highly praised wine book.