About California Vineyards
Each region in California’s diverse wine country has different characteristics that make the wines produced there unique in many ways. The climate conditions and soil variations affect wine production as much as the people who have their hands on the grapes. Find out what kind of wine comes from some of the various locales in sunny California.
If you are thinking of a romantic drive in the country or you are planning an elaborate getaway along America’s west coast, you will definitely want to check out the world famous wineries and vineyards in California. There are some things to consider if you have a wine preference or you just want to try all the varietals available; you might be able to map your entire trip according to the characteristics of wines produced in separate regions of the Golden State by its many lush and fertile wineries.
Northern Regions
Along the north coast lay vineyards that are often featured in travel magazines, including Napa Valley and Sonoma County vineyards, for the beautiful landscapes and exquisite wines. With the benefit of rolling hills, sunny coastlines, and deep valleys, you can find just about anything you are looking for on the northern California coast. The cool air along the northern coast and the permeating fog that flows in from the Pacific Ocean allow for a long grape season. The climate is perfect for growing grapes that produce rich and flavorful wines. Farther inland is the Sacramento Valley; producing its famous zinfandels, petite sirahs, and chardonnays. These exquisite full-flavored, bold varietals are made with grapes that thrive in the Mediterranean climate and rich, dry soils common to the valley.
Central Regions
The long central coastlines of California produce pinot noir and chardonnay varietals that are enjoyed worldwide. The air off of the Pacific can flow into coastal valleys allow a long growing season for slow, evenly ripened grapes, or it can be blocked off by low mountains, leaving dry climates in valley vineyards that produce grapes that make intense, full-bodied Rhone and Bordeaux varieties. The elevated vineyards along the Sierra Foothills tend to enjoy the traditional four seasons, producing robust grapes that can be turned into the famous Californian zinfandels known by wine connoisseurs everywhere. In the hot, dry San Joaquin Valley grapes tolerate high temperatures similar to Australia and southern Italy. Sauvignon Blanc is one of the fruity wines produced here.
Southern Region
The tropic-like coast of Southern California is world renowned for its wineries and vineyards. Some of the oldest Californian grapes are grown here. It stays sunny and cool with the ocean breeze flowing inland, and grapes grow hardy in the ideal vineyard climates. From Julian to L.A. there is a huge variety of cultures, histories and wines. From fruity to woodsy, you can find just about every flavor you may want to taste in Southern California’s vineyards.
The wine regions of California are said to be home to some of the first vineyards in America, and still produce excellent wines today. All through California’s coastlines you can find romantic scenery and awe-inspiring landscapes that have become the epitome of what a wine country should be.