California dreaming in a glass
Napa Valley
United States
Region Details
Climate
Mediterranean, warm days, cool nights
Soil
Volcanic, alluvial, varied
Varietals
4 key grapes
Sub-regions
4 areas
Wine styles
Key varietals
Wine Heritage
History of Napa Valley
"California dreaming in a glass"
The 1976 "Judgment of Paris" blind tasting, where Napa wines beat top Bordeaux and Burgundy, announced California to the world. Since then, Napa has become synonymous with premium American wine.
About Napa Valley
Napa Valley put American wine on the world map. Its Cabernet Sauvignons rival Bordeaux, its diverse microclimates support everything from Chardonnay to Zinfandel, and its wineries attract visitors from around the globe.
Terroir
Napa's genius is diversity within a small area. The valley floor is warm; mountain vineyards are cooler with thinner soils. Morning fog from San Pablo Bay cools the southern end. Over 30 soil types create endless variation.
Flavor Profile
Sub-regions
Oakville
Cab Sauvignon, benchmark, structured
Rutherford
Cab Sauvignon, "Rutherford dust"
Stags Leap
Cab Sauvignon, elegant, velvety
Carneros
Chardonnay, Pinot, cool climate