California Flashcards
(206 cards)
1
Q
Describe the location and climate of St Helena AVA and Calistoga AVA?
A
Further north in Napa Valley than Rutherford.
Receive almost no influence from San Pablo Bay and conditions are warm to hot.
Chalk Hill Gap (break in Mayacamas) lets in Pacific breezes which cools temps.
2
Q
How much more expensive (in general) is Napa fruit than Lodi fruit?
A
up to 10x
3
Q
What is the name of Napa County’s sustainability certification?
What % of vineyard land in Napa is currently certified sustainable?
A
Napa Green (cert. available for both vineyard and winery)
60%
4
Q
What percentage of a wine labeled ‘California’ must come from the state?
A
100%
5
Q
What grape varieties is Chalone AVA best known for?
What other varieties are grown?
A
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
A range, including Chenin Blanc, Pinot Blanc, Syrah
6
Q
Describe the soils in Sonoma Mountain AVA
A
Volcanic, free-draining, low in nutrients
(on slopes)
7
Q
What are the most planted grape varieties in Santa Maria Valley AVA?
A
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Syrah, Viognier
8
Q
Where are producers using Merlot to produce premium wines in California?
A
Typically in warmer areas eg Oak Knoll District and Stag’s Leap District in Napa
9
Q
What are the notable grape varieties in Chalk Hill AVA?
A
Chardonnay
Cabernet Sauvignon
Sauvignon Blanc
10
Q
What grape varieties is Clarksburg AVA known for?
What other varieties are planted?
A
Chenin Blanc & Petite Sirah
Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier
11
Q
If a vineyard is named on the label, what percentage of the grapes must come from that vineyard?
A
95%
12
Q
Describe the location and growing environment of Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA
What are the most planted varieties?
A
Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA is located at the easternmost end of Santa Ynez Valley, furthest from the Pacific Ocean. It is at this point that the valley shifts from an east-west to a north-south orientation which blocks coastal breezes, giving warm temperatures.
High altitude sites and exposure to afternoon winds can give high diurnal range.
Cabernet Sauvignon & Sauvignon Blanc, followed by other Bordeaux varieties, Syrah & Grenache
13
Q
Quality and price level of wines from Paso Robles
A
Much of the production is inexpensive to mid-priced wines of good quality, however a number of producers are making very good to outstanding quality wines at mid to premium pricesS
14
Q
What Napa Valley AVAs are located on the valley floor?
A
Carneros
Coombsville
Oak Knoll
these three furthest south and under fog layer, coolest
Yountville
Stags Leap District
Oakville
Rutherford
further north, warmer, still some influence from SPB
St Helena
Calistoga
hottest
15
Q
If a wine comes from an AVA entirely within Sonoma County, what must appear on the label along with the name of the AVA?
A
Sonoma County
16
Q
If an AVA is named on the bottle, what percentage of the grapes must come from that AVA?
A
85%
17
Q
What wines is Edna Valley AVA known for?
A
High quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (still & sparkling)
Range of other varieties planted, including Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Albariño and Viognier
18
Q
Describe the location and topography of Santa Cruz Mountains AVA
How does this affect the growing environment?
A
Santa Cruz mountains are part of the Coast Range that runs down north/central California coast. The AVA includes Santa Cruz, Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.
Vineyards are planted at altitudes up to 800m, which moderates daytime temperatures. At night, cold air slips down the hillside meaning nights remain relatively warm.
19
Q
What is the average quality and price of Monterey AVA?
A
Due to the availability of irrigation water and the ease mechanization on the large, flat valley floor, many grapes from this AVA are made into inexpensive to mid-priced volume wines, either entirely from Monterey or as part of cross-regional blends.
20
Q
Where is Rockpile AVA located?
A
Northern part of Sonoma county, overlapping with Dry Creek Valley AVA and extending into Mendocino County to the north
21
Q
What varieties are planted in Rockpile AVA?
A
Zinfandel
Petite Sirah
Syrah
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Franc
Malbec
Petit Verdot
& Douro Varieties
22
Q
Significant Anderson Valley producers
A
Kendall-Jackson
Seghesio
23
Q
5 Mountain side AVAs in Napa and their location within the valley
A
Mount Veeder AVA - southwest corner, coolest of the mountain AVAs
Atlas Peak AVA - southeast, also relatively cool but with afternoon sun
Howell Mountain AVA - northeast, one of the warmest
Spring Mountain District AVA - northwest
Diamond Mountain District AVA - northwest
24
Q
Describe the location and climate of South Coast AVA
A
Stretches from Los Angeles to the border with Mexico
Due to low latitude, cooling influences are required for high quality grape growing. Vineyards are planted in areas exposed to ocean breezes or at altitude.
25
What are the criteria that must be met for a California winery to label their wines "estate-bottled"?
- Made and bottled at producer's winery
- Grapes only from vineyards owned or controlled by the producer WITHIN the stated AVA
*This has led to the creation of some very large AVAs which allow larger producers to use the "estate-bottled" term for some of their premium wines
26
When were vineyards originally established in the Sierra Foothills?
When did production begin again?
Mid-to late 1800s during the Gold Rush by European prospectors with vine cuttings from home. Many vineyards abandoned during Prohibition.
1960s
27
How can you group California's AVAs?
North Coast
Central Coast
Inland Valleys (including Central Valley)
Sierra Foothills
Southern California
28
Describe the location and topography of Sierra Foothills
How large is the AVA?
Located 160km east of San Francisco in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range
1 million ha, encompassing multiple counties
29
Style, quality and price of Carneros Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
Style ranges from medium-bodied, medium alcohol, medium(+) acid and fresher fruit to fuller-bodied, riper, higher alcohol styles
Quality: Good to outstanding
Price: Mid to super-premium
30
What is the general climate of Lodi AVA?
What are its moderating influences?
Hot Mediterranean, low rainfall
Cooling afternoon winds from San Francisco Bay and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Breezes off the bay can carry very far due to the flat land in the area along with gaps in the North and South Coast Ranges.
The windy conditions also reduce the incidence of frost and fungal disease.
31
Factors that reduce fungal disease pressure in California
Low rainfall during the growing season
Breezes from the coast
32
What percentage of California wine grapes are black?
63%
33
What percentage of California wine production does Napa represent?
What percentage of retail value of California wine does Napa represent?
4%
27%
34
Two key influences on California's climate
1) Cold Pacific ocean due to the California Ocean Current and upwelling along the west coast
2) The Coast Ranges which shelter inland regions from the cold Pacific influence
35
Significant producers in Rockpile
Seghesio Family
Devil Proof
36
Describe the location of North Coast AVA
It encompasses 160km down the Pacific coastline and reaches 80km inland. The Mayacamas mountains run through the AVA.
37
Describe the location, topography and growing environment of Central Valley
Entirely inland and covers a large area across two valleys.
The Sacramento Valley makes up the northern half with 6,000ha under vine whereas the southern San Joaquin Valley has around 61,000ha under vine.
Most of the vineyards are planted on flat, fertile areas. High temperatures (regularly 35-40 in daytime) lead to very ripe grapes.
38
How many AVAs are there in Sonoma County?
What are the three overarching AVAs?
18
Northern Sonoma AVA
Sonoma Coast AVA
Sonoma Valley AVA
39
What is the general climate and climactic influences present in Dry Creek Valley AVA
Generally warm days, sheltered to the west by coastal mountains
In the afternoons & evenings, cool air and fogs are funneled up from San Pablo Bay. Helps to retain acidity in grapes.
Southern part of the valley generally cooler due to greater influence from San Pablo Bay
40
Can Santa Barbara wine producers open cellar doors at their wineries?
No, legislation requires that cellar doors be located in a town or city
41
Where is Clarksburg AVA located?
What is its general climate?
Southwest of Sacramento, near the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta
Similar to Lodi with hot days moderated by afternoon breezes off the Delta
42
Describe the use of oak for California Cabernet Sauvignon
All but the most inexpensive wines will see oak. High proportions of new French oak are still common, but maturation times are shorter than they were in past years. General movement toward better balance of fruit and oak.
43
What is the average rainfall in Anderson Valley and when does most of it fall?
800mm
Mostly in winter
44
Describe the location and climate of Anderson Valley AVA
Mendocino County. The valley runs from north-west, where it is very near to the Pacific to south-east, where it is further inland.
Daytime temperatures are warm but the Navarro river funnels cold air and fog inland, giving cold mornings and evenings. The influence of the cold air decreases further into the valley as it narrows.
45
What varieties are planted in Livermore Valley AVA?
What is the general style of the wines?
Chardonnay
Cabernet Sauvignon
Sauvignon Blanc
Zinfandel
Concentrated ripe flavors & tannins with fresh acidity
46
What are the particularities surrounding labeling in Carneros?
Wines may be labeled either Carneros or Los Carneros
Wine made from grapes from the Sonoma side may display Sonoma County and from the Napa side may say Napa County
Wines made from both parts of the AVA may only state (Los) Carneros
47
What are the main geographic features present in Central Coast and how do they affect the growing environment?
The Southern Coast Ranges, including the Santa Cruz, Gabilan and Santa Lucia mountains, run north-south and shelter vineyards from cold, wet air and fog from the Pacific.
In some places, especially the Transverse Range in Santa Barbary County, the orientation of the mountains shifts to east-west which acts as a funnel for cold winds and fogs to roll inland off of the Pacific Ocean.
48
Describe the soils of Knights Valley AVA
Warm, free-draining volcanic
49
What is the total area of Paso Robles AVA?
How many sub-AVAs are there?
What is the best known of these sub-AVAs?
250,000ha (3x size of Napa Valley)
11, introduced 2014
Adelaida District AVA, located in the Santa Lucia Highlands area in the northwest of the greater AVA
50
Describe the style, quality, price of Anderson Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Full-bodied, high tannin, blackcurrant, chocolate, blackberry, dried herbs
Less tannin from wines on valley floor, sites on slopes show more tannin/structure
Quality: Good to Outstanding
Price: Mid to Premium, some super-premium
51
52
When was viticulture established in California's South Coast area?
What have been some challenges to grape growing since then?
* Orginally planted 1760s by Franciscan monks
* 1830s: commercial vineyards planted
* Prohibition: vineyards abandoned and replaced with urban sprawl, food crops, housing
* 1990s: area ravaged by Pierce's disease
* today: focus on quality rather than quantity. Disease outbreak offered opportunity to replant with focus on rootstocks, sites, clones, varieties
53
What are the most planted varieties in Petaluma Gap AVA?
Describe the general style of the wines.
75% Pinot Noir, followed by Chardonnay and Syrah
Higher acidity, fresher fruit, lower alcohol than wines from more sheltered, inland areas
54
What are the most planted varieties in Arroyo Grande AVA?
What other varieties are planted?
Dominated by Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (still & sparkling)
Zinfandel and Syrah in warmer areas (further inland)
55
What is the main white grape variety in the AVAs Yountville, Stags Leap, Oakville and Rutherford?
Style?
Sauvignon Blanc
Ripe, juicy, peach & tropical, med+ acid
56
What are the two sub-AVAs of Russian River Valley?
Green Valley of Russian River Valley AVA
Chalk Hill AVA
57
What is the most planted variety in Sonoma Mountain AVA?
What other varieties are planted?
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot, Zinfandel, Syrah
Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon (planted on cooler sites to west of appellation where there is some oceanic influence)
58
Where is Santa Barbara County?
What are its six AVAs and where are they located?
In the southernmost part of the Central Coast AVA, south of San Luis Obispo County.
Santa Maria Valley AVA
Santa Ynez Valley AVA, which has 4 sub AVAs:
Santa Rita Hills AVA
Ballard Canyon AVA
Los Olivos District AVA
Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA
The AVAs are located in the Transverse Ranges, which run east-west and funnel in cold Pacific breezes & fogs, lowering temps and reducing risk of frost and fungal disease due to air circulation (grapes can therefore be left on the vine into autumn, which is sometimes needed in the coolest areas)
59
What is the general soil type in the Sierra Foothills?
Sandy clay loam from decomposed granite that retains sufficient water to allow dry farming
60
What is the style of wine from Fort Ross Seaview AVA?
What are the most planted grape varieties?
Riper fruit than wines made below the fog line, but still high acidity.
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah
61
Where is Sonoma Mountain AVA located?
Where are the vineyards mostly planted?
Western, northern part of Sonoma Valley
East-facing, steep slopes in the Sonoma mountain range up to 730m. Above the fog line.
62
What AVAs are within Sonoma Coast AVA?
Sonoma side of Carneros AVA
Part of Sonoma Valley AVA
Western part of Chalk Hill AVA
Most of Russian River Valley AVA
Petaluma Gap AVA
Fort Ross Seaview AVA
= wide range of climates & grape varieties
63
How many AVAs in California?
around 140
64
What are the predominate grape varieties in the cooler areas of Russian River Valley?
What are the soils like in this area?
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
Varied, yellow sandstone to rocky sandy clay loam. Generally free-draining and low in nutrients.
65
What are some cooling influences in Clear Lake AVA?
The lake itself, which takes up about half of the AVA, provides afternoon breezes.
Altitude: many vineyards planted on slopes and ridges around the lake, at altitudes of 400-450m.
66
Two famous single vineyards in Napa
Martha's Vineyard (Oakville)
To Kalon (Rutherford Bench)
67
Describe the location and climate of Knights Valley AVA
Furthest inland of the Sonoma county AVAs, with one of the warmest climates in the county
Surrounded by hills, including the Mayacamas mountains to the west, which shelter it from Pacific influence
Cooler sites are found by planting at altitudes up to 450m in Mayacamas foothills
68
Describe the soils in Monterey AVA
Sandy loam and gravel, free-draining
69
What is the main grape variety in Paso Robles?
Are grapes grown mostly black or white?
What other varieties are grown?
Cabernet Sauvignon
40%
Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel also common
Increasing interest in black & white Rhône varieties
70
Where is Colombard planted in California and what kind of wines are made from it?
Mostly in Central Vally
Rarely varietally labeled, rather ends up in blends with other varieties with names like "fruity white"
71
What are California's two most planted grape varieties?
1) Chardonnay
2) Cabernet Sauvignon
Each about 20% total area under vine, CS likely to eclipse Chardonnay's slight lead in the coming years
72
How many sub-AVAs are contained within Napa Valley AVA?
How must these wines be labeled?
16
Wines from the sub-appellation must show the name of the sub AVA as well as Napa Valley, eg Rutherford Napa Valley
73
How are vines typically trained in Napa?
Cordon or replacement spur
VSP trellising
74
What is the best known AVA within the Mendocino AVA?
Anderson Valley AVA
75
Are Napa Valley vineyards typically harvested by hand or by machine?
Mechanized where possible (eg valley floor)
Hand harvest only option in some mountainside vineyards
76
Where is the Central Coast AVA?
Central Coast AVA covers 450km of coastline from San Fransisco to Santa Barbara and extends inland 95km.
77
Where is the Fort Ross Seaview AVA located?
What is special about the AVA?
In the northwest corner of Sonoma Coast AVA.
Vineyards must be at a minimum 280m altitude, above the fog layer. More sunshine hours while altitude helps to preserve acidity.
Cool winds moderate temperature.
78
Is irrigation common in Monterey AVA?
Due to low growing season rainfall, irrigation is essential in Monterey Bay.
The Salinas River provides water for irrigation.
79
What are the predominant grape varieties in the western part of Sonoma Coast AVA?
What is the general style?
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
Relatively light-bodied, high acid with medium alcohol due to the cool conditions
80
What is the most planted grape variety in Anderson Valley?
What other varieties are also planted?
Cabernet Sauvignon
Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel, Petit Verdot, Malbec
81
What is the most planted grape in Napa Valley?
What percentage of production does it represent?
What percentage of crop value does it represent?
Cabernet Sauvignon
40%
55%
82
What are some commonly grown varieties in Central Valley?
French Colombard, Chardonnay, Muscat, Zinfandel and Merlot
83
Describe how grapes from Lodi may be used
* part of an inexpensive blend California blend from one of Central Valley's large producers, due to low price of fruit
* be used with grapes entirely from Lodi AVA
84
What varieties are planted in Bennett Valley AVA?
Syrah
Merlot
Sauvignon Blanc
Chardonnay
Other Rhône varieties, eg Grenache, Viognier
85
Describe the style of premium California Zinfandel
Medium(+) acidity, medium to full body, ripe medium(+) tannins, high alcohol, flavors of blueberry, raspberry, blackberry. Often aged in American oak, adding vanilla flavors.
86
Describe the location of Sonoma Coast AVA?
Runs from Mendocino in the north, along the Pacific Ocean and down to Marin County and San Pablo Bay
87
Significant Santa Barbara producers
Mail Road Wines
Sine Qua Non
88
Describe the climate and soils of Livermore Valley AVA
It is subjected to cold afternoon breezes in the afternoon, as hot air raises from the Central Valley to the west, cold air is sucked in from San Francisco Bay.
Soils are stony and free-draining.
89
If a county is named, what percentage of the grapes must come from that county?
75%
90
Why are the soils in Napa Valley so diverse?
Generally speaking, describe the soils on the mountain sides and valley floors.
Tectonic and volcanic activity over 150million years ago
Mountains: thin & poor
Valley floor: Silt & clay, formed by Napa river. Highest fertility & water holding capacity. (less structured wines than from mountain sides/alluvial fans)
91
Significant producers of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
Littorai
Williams Selyem
92
What is the most planted variety in Coombsville and Oak Knoll?
What other varieties are planted?
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot, Chardonnay
*tend to be lighter-boded, lower alcohol than from the more northerly AVAs due to cooler climate/reduced sunshine from fog
93
Describe the range of quality and price of wines from Lodi?
Where are the most expensive wines from?
*Quality* ranges from good to very good with some outstanding examples
*Price* from inexpensive to premium.
Most expensive wines from single vineyards of old dry-farmed bush vines
94
How much rainfall does Anderson Valley AVA receive?
900-2000mm/annum (high), mostly in winter and spring.
The northwest of the valley, closest to the Pacific, is the wettest area.
95
Describe the climate and major climactic influences in Rockpile AVA
Snake-like Lake Sonoma surrounds AVA from three sides and moderates temperatures, helping to create an inversion layer, leading to warmer night-time temperatures. (As compared to Dry Creek Valley which has cooler nights and warmer days)
Vineyards are at altitude and sit above the fog layer leading to long hours of sunshine.
Windy conditions lead to high evapotranspiration rates and therefore low yields and concentrated fruit
96
Due to conditions in Lodi, a wealth of grape varieties can ripen well yet maintain a degree of freshness, name some of these.
What grape variety is Lodi particularly known for?
* Rhône and South of France varieties (Grenache, Syrah, Cinsaut, Mourvèdre, Viognier, Picpoul)
* Bordeaux varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc)
* Spanish varieties (Tempranillo, Graciano, Albariño)
* Portuguese varieties (Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cão)
* German varieties (Riesling, Gewürztraminer)
* Italian varieties (Barbera, Aglianico)
**Zinfandel**
some vines are 100 years old, sandy soils mean phylloxera did not affect all areas of AVA
97
Where is Sonoma Valley located?
Southeastern corner of Sonoma Valley. Bordered by the Mayacamas mountains to the east, the Sonoma Range to the west (sheltered from Ocean) and opening to San Pablo Bay in the south.
98
What is the Rutherford Bench?
Most famous vineyard area in Oakville and Rutherford.
5km stretch of vineyards located on a gently sloping alluvial fan at the base of the Mayacamas
99
What is the predominant grape variety in the northern Napa Valley floor appellations of Yountville, Stags Leap, Oakville and Rutherford?
Which of these AVAs has the greatest influence from San Pablo Bay? Which has the least?
What other varieties are planted?
Cabernet Sauvignon
Yountville is furthest south, closest to San Pablo Bay and receives the greatest influence from cool air being pulled in at night, whereas Rutherford, the furthest north has the least influence
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, some Zinfandel in Rutherford
100
Significant producers in Lodi
* Michael David
* Ravenswood
101
Where are grapes mostly planted in the Carmel Valley AVA?
Within the Carmel Valley, a small valley parallel to the Salinas Valley and in Cachagua Valley, which is further inland.
In Cachagua Valley, vines planted up to 670m altitude, above the fog line. Depending on aspect, these can be some of the warmest sites in Monterey. Night time temps still very cool due to altitude and being surrounded by mountains.
102
What is the water source for irrigation in Lodi?
Mokelumne River, which runs through the AVA
103
Where is Livermore Valley AVA located?
In Alameda County, on the east side of San Francisco Bay
104
Aside from Chardonnay, what wine styles does Anderson Valley successfully produce?
Aromatic Alsace-style white wines from Pinot Gris, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Blanc
105
Significant producers of Carneros Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
Kistler
Tor
106
What is the minimum altitude at which vineyards for Rockpile AVA must be planted?
800 ft (244m)
107
How is the topography and climate of the Napa mountain AVAs different from that of the valley floor AVAs?
These vineyards generally sit above the fog layer and receive longer hours of sunshine. Temperatures are less extreme, leading to a lower diurnal range.
Altitude (up to 800m) is the cooling influence. Combination of temperature & soils means these AVAs generally produce wines higher in tannin and acidity than the valley floor AVAs.
Generally, the vineyards on the east side of the valley (west-facing) receive more intense afternoon sunlight resulting in wines higher in alcohol with riper fruit.
108
What grape varieties are planted in St Helena and Calistoga
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Syrah
Petite Sirah
Zinfandel
109
What AVAs are included within the larger Northern Sonoma AVA?
Alexander Valley AVA
Knights Valley AVA
Rockpile AVA
Chalk Hill AVA
Russian River Valley AVA
& Green Valley of Russian River Valley
Dry Creek Valley
110
Where is Santa Maria Valley AVA located?
Describe the growing environment.
The northern part of Santa Barbara County.
The Santa Maria Valley runs west to east which funnels Pacific air, fog and breezes east to the vineyards, lowering temps.
111
Where is Russian River Valley AVA located?
What is its general climate?
Middle of Sonoma County, included in the Northern Sonoma AVA and part is within the Sonoma Coast AVA.
Its generally moderate to warm, and includes a range of sites across flat and hilly areas.
112
What are the main grape varieties in Carmel Valley AVA?
In warm Cachagua Valley - Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
In cooler Carmel Valley, nearer the coast - Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
113
What is the most planted grape variety in Knights Valley AVA?
What other varieties are planted?
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel as well as some Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc
114
Which two California wines received top marks at a wine tasting in France in 1976?
1973 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay
115
What varieties are most planted in Santa Cruz Mountains AVA?
Cabernet Sauvignon
Chardonnay
Pinot Noir
However, the east side of the AVA, which borders Silicon Valley, is warmer and more suited to Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot
116
Style, quality, price of Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel
Medium(+) to full body
Medium(+) acidity
Ripe flavors of blackberry, black plum, cherry
Typically aged in large proportion of new oak, commonly American oak
West-facing sites: riper, jammier, dried fruits
East-facing sites/southern area: fresher
Quality: Good to outstanding
Price: Mid to premium
117
What percentage of grapes must come from the stated vintage on an AVA-labeled wine?
& for a wine labeled with the county or state?
95%
85%
118
Describe the topography of Dry Creek Valley.
Where are vines planted?
A narrow valley only 3x26km
Vines are planted both on the valley floor and on either side of the Dry Creek River (a tributary of the Russian River). West-facing vineyards planted on east side of the river tend to be warmer than those on the other side due to exposure to the afternoon sun
119
What percentage of a wine labeled with a single variety must come from that variety?
75%
120
Significant producers of Russian River Valley Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Rochioli
La Crema
121
Describe the style of a typical premium California Chardonnay
Medium(+) to full body
Pronounced flavors of peach and pineapple, secondary flavors of oak, MLC
*some producers choosing to make leaner styles, with citrus fruit flavors, less overt oak and possibly some reduction
122
What are the two largest producers in Central Valley?
E&J Gallo Winery
Bronco Wine Company
123
What is the style of Syrah produced in warmer areas of Santa Barbara County?
Medium to medium+ body, medium+ tannins and acidity, fresh blackberry & plum varieties
124
Describe conditions in the western area of Sonoma Coast AVA.
What are the hazards?
Very close (within a couple km at times) and exposed to cold Pacific winds and fog.
Cool, windy conditions in spring often disrupt fruit set. Yields low.
Growing conditions are cool, limited sunshine hours due to fog.
125
Where are vines planted in Rockpile AVA?
Steep, rocky slopes from 244-650m
Variety of aspects and altitudes creates a wide range of growing conditions
126
How many wineries are there in Anderson Valley?
85, many with cellar doors to take advantage of the tourist trade along the Mendocino county coast
127
Describe the style of Petite Sirah
Deeply-colored, full-bodied wines, med(+) high tannins and acidity, black fruit and spice flavors
*also used as blending component with Bordeaux varieties
*adds color, body, tannin, acidity, black fruit flavors
128
Describe the topography and growing environment in Paso Robles
It's a large area with a wide range of sites including valley floors, rolling hills and mountains with altitudes up to 670m.
Eastern, more inland areas tend to be warmer and produced concentrated, ripe wines.
Western areas cooler, with more Pacific influence.
The Templeton Gap, a low point in the Coastal Range, funnels in cool air from the Pacific and provides a cooling influence in the western areas of Paso Robles
129
What are the nine most planted grape varieties in California?
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot, French Colombard, Syrah, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc
130
Quality and Price of wines from Santa Cruz Mountains AVA
Quality: Good- outstanding
Price: Mid to super premium
131
What grape varieties are planted in Santa Rita Hills AVA?
What variety is it most known for? What is the expected style of wines made from it?
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and Syrah
Pinot Noir
Medium+ to high acid, medium+ tannins and flavors of black cherry, black plum, tea leaf, savor. They command premium and super-premium prices due to high demand and small supply.
132
Where are most vineyards planted in Anderson Valley AVA?
Along the sloped sides of the valley. Cold nights mean spring frost can be an issue, especially in lower-lying areas.
133
Significant producers in Paso Robles
Saxum Vineyards
Tablas Creek
134
Aside from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah, what other grapes are planted in Santa Barbara County?
Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Rhône varieties, especially Grenache and Viognier
135
Describe the soils of Lodi AVA
Flatlands with free-draining sandy and clay loam soils
136
Key producers in Dry Creek Valley AVA
Ridge
Kinsella Estate
137
Describe the location and growing environment of Los Olivos AVA
What varieties are grown?
Within the greater Santa Ynez AVA, it sits between Ballard Canyon and Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara on alluvial terraces.
It has warm, sunny days and relatively low diurnal range without altitude or much influence from fog.
A mixture of Bordeaux, Rhône and Italian varieties
138
Where is Arroyo Grande AVA located? What is its general climate?
Arroyo Grande is a valley which lies northeast-southwest to the south of Edna Valley AVA.
Days are sunny and warm, however in the afternoons cool winds and fogs are funneled from the Pacific Ocean in the southwest through the valley, making this one of the coolest areas in California and resulting in ripe grapes with high acidity levels.
139
What is an alluvial fan?
How are Napa wines grown on the alluvial fans said to compare to Napa wines grown on the mountainsides and valley floor?
Soils created at the bottoms of mountains (in Napa, typically on the west side of the valley) by the deposition of sediment by mountain streams as they hit the valley floor.
Often called "benches," the soils are deep, rocky with moderate fertility.
Style considered to be somewhere between that of the valley floor and mountain styles. Many of the valley floor appellations have both bench and fluvial soils (eg Rutherford)
140
Where is Ballard Canyon located?
What varieties are most planted?
Ballard Canyon is located further inland than Santa Rita Hills in the greater Santa Ynez Valley AVA. It has relatively small plantings.
The canyon runs north to south which protects from the cool breezes running eastward from the Transverse Ranges. It experiences overnight fogs which keep night-time temperatures cool.
Syrah and Grenache
141
What is the name of the sustainability program in Lodi?
What percentage of Lodi vineyards are certified sustainable?
Lodi Rules, it was California's first sustainability program. Over 1,000 wineries are certified in California & around the world.
Around 20%
142
Where is Chalk Hill AVA located?
Describe the growing environment and soils.
The northeast corner of Russian River Valley AVA, just south of Alexander Valley
Hilly area, sheltering it from the Pacific somewhat and creating a warmer climate than further south in RRV.
Vines are planted up to 500m.
Soils are white volcanic ash (NOT CHALK)
143
Describe the topography and location of Arroyo Seco AVA
Located in the south and east of the Santa Lucia mountains.
It starts in Arroyo Seco Canyon, a narrow gorge at the base of the Santa Lucia mountains and opens up onto the Salinas River Valley floor.
144
What are the main grape varieties in Monterey AVA?
Chardonnay is almost 50% of plantings, and planted in cooler and warmer sites.
Pinot Noir & Riesling are grown in the coolest northern sites.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Zinfandel are grown on warmer inland sites.
145
Where are vineyards planted in Santa Maria Valley AVA?
What are the soils like?
100-250m altitude on hillside slopes
Sandy clay shale loam
146
Is irrigation common in Napa?
Yes, drip irrigation common due to low rainfall during the growing season
147
Describe the location and growing environment in Chalone AVA?
Eastern part of Monterey in the Gabilan mountain range.
Vineyards planted up to 550m, above the fog line. High levels of sunshine and cool nights = large diurnal range.
Soils are free-draining granite and limestone. Low yields of concentrated grapes.
148
Describe the style of premium California Syrah
Medium to medium (+)body, medium(+) acidity and tannins, fresh plum, blackberry & spice flavors
149
What is the general climate in Sierra Foothills?
What are some cooling influences?
Hot daytime temperatures up to 35-40 degrees
* Cool air descends from mountains at night, giving high diurnal range.
* Planting at altitude, up to 600m in Amador County and 1000m in El Dorado AVA
150
Where is San Luis Obispo County?
What are its three main AVAs?
Pacific Coast between Monterey County and Santa Barbara County
Paso Robles, Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande
151
Describe the location and growing environment in Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
Located in Monterey county, it is a 30km stretch of southeast-facing alluvial terraces overlooking the Salinas Valley.
It is fairly close to Monterey Bay, meaning vineyards are exposed to cold wind and fogs. Vineyards are planted up to 350m, which takes advantage of the morning sun before afternoon breezes cool the vineyards. Wind can be so strong that vine stomata close, slowing ripening.
152
Are plantings in Lake County mostly black or white?
What are the two most planted varieties?
Mostly black
Cabernet Sauvignon & Sauvignon Blanc
153
What are five AVAs within Monterey County?
Where are the vineyards located?
Monterey AVA
Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
Arroyo Seco AVA
Chalone AVA
Carmel Valley
Within the large Salinas Valley that runs from Monterey Bay in the northwest of the county to San Luís Obispo County in the south, or on the sides of the mountain ranges on either side
154
Where is Green Valley of Russian River Valley?
Describe the growing environment.
Closest vineyards to the Petaluma Gap in RRV
First to receive fog in the evening, last area for it to burn off, leading to some of the coolest conditions in Northern Calif.
Soils are predominantly free-draining, low-nutrient sandstone.
Similar styles of PN/Chard as RRV, but can have fresher acidity and flavors
155
Describe the soils of Dry Creek Valley AVA
Gravel sandy loam on the valley floor
Gravel red clay loam on the slopes and benches
Gravelly free-draining soil = reduced vigor and yields
156
Are many wines labeled Clarksburg AVA?
No, the majority of grapes are used for California blends
157
When and why was AXR1 rootstock introduced?
Why was its use discontinued?
Introduced in the 1970s after the success of California wines in wine tasting proved the potential of the region and led to an increase in plantings. It produced higher yields than traditional rootstocks.
Its use was discontinued as it had V. vinifera ancestry and in the 1980s phylloxera spread through Calif. vineyards.
This became an opportunity for the area to replant with more thought to varieties, clones, sites and canopy management. In many cases, this was also a shift to quality over quantity.
158
What are some of the most common varieties grown in South Coast AVA?
* Chardonnay
* Cabernet Sauvignon
* Zinfandel
* Chenin Blanc
159
What are some sub-appellations of Sonoma Valley?
Part of Carneros AVA
Sonoma Mountain AVA
Bennett Valley AVA
160
Aside from Cabernet Sauvignon, what other grapes are planted in Napa Valley?
What is the most planted white variety?
Merlot
Pinot Noir
Zinfandel
Petit Verdot
Malbec
Cabernet Franc
Syrah
Petite Sirah
*Chardonnay*
Sauvignon Blanc
Pinot Gris
161
What are the main grape varieties in Santa Lucia Highlands AVA? What is the general style?
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah
Fresh flavors and high acidities due to cooling influence from Monterey Bay
162
Describe the winemaking process and resulting style for White Zinfandel
Zinfandel grapes from Central Valley
Short maceration on skins
Fermentation in stainless steel
Early arrested fermentation to produce a medium-dry wine
Style: Medium pink, medium-dry, often low alcohol (10.5-11%), medium acidity and body, flavors of strawberry and fruit candy
Price: inexpensive-mid
Quality: Acceptable-good
163
Which areas of Russian River Valley AVA are the coolest?
Why?
The south and western areas are the coolest because they receive cold air and fog from the Petaluma Gap. The fogs usually arrive in the evening and burn off in the morning.
Retain acidity, slow sugar accumulation, extend growing season
164
What is the area under vine in Anderson Valley AVA?
What are the two most planted varieties?
1000ha
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for still & sparkling wines
165
Describe the location of the Northern Sonoma AVA
Separated from the ocean by the Sonoma Coast AVA
Bordered by Mendocino County in the north, the Mayacamas mountains to the east, and down to Santa Rosa in the middle of Sonoma County
The Russian River flows from the north of the AVA and provides water for the vineyards and aquifers before flowing into the Pacific
166
What were some advancements made to California winemaking during the mid-to-late 20th century?
Who pioneered them?
Temperature-controlled fermentation
Better winery hygiene
Techniques to prevent disease and frost damage
André Tschellistcheff
167
Describe the general style of Zinfandel from Lodi
Medium to full body, medium to medium+ acidity, ripe tannins, flavors of cherry, blueberry, blackberry
168
Describe the location and growing environment of Monterey AVA?
Most of the AVA runs along the length of the Salinas River Valley, which opens up directly to Monterey Bay in the north. Due to a deep canyon, the water in Monterey Bay is particularly cold, so afternoons/evenings in the Salinas River Valley can be very cold and windy, especially in the areas closest to Monterey Bay.
169
What are the most common grape varieties in the cooler areas of Santa Barbara County?
Describe the style of wines made here from these two varieties
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir: Med+ to high acid, medium to medium+ body, medium tannin, high alcohol, red cherry & plum flavors
Chardonnay: Medium+ to high acid, medium to medium+ body, lemon, grapefruit & peach flavors
170
Where are the majority of plantings in Sierra Foothills AVA?
* Amador County's California Shenandoah AVA & Fiddletown AVA
* El Dorado AVA in El Dorado County
171
What grape variety is Sierra Foothills best known for?
What other grape varieties are planted?
**Old vine Zinfandel**, some vines well over 100 years old
* Rhône (Viognier, Marsanne, Roussane, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre)
* Italian (Barbera, Sangiovese, Pinot Grigio, Aglianico)
* Spanish (Verdelho, Tempranillo)
172
How many AVAs are there in Mendocino county?
13 in total
Mendocino AVA covers six of these (Anderson Valley, Potter Valley, Redwood Valley, Cole Ranch, Yorkville Highlands McDowell Ranch) and can be used for blends between these AVAs
173
Where is Lodi AVA located?
How large is it?
Northern end of Central Valley, about 160km inland from San Francisco Bay
45,000ha (around 2x size of Sonoma Valley)
174
Why are grape and land prices so high in Napa?
- Almost all viable/permitted land has already been planted
- Legislation does not allow planting on slopes with a grade over 30%
- Popularity and prestige of Napa wines, coupled with inability to expand production
175
What is the trade organization for the California wine industry?
The Wine Institute of California, about 1/4 of California producers are members
176
Where is Petaluma Gap AVA located?
What is the defining characteristic of this AVA?
Southern Sonoma and northern Marin County.
High speed coastal winds which run through the area from the Petaluma Gap in the northeast toward the San Pablo Bay in the southwest. The area was defined by those that receive a minimum 12k/h persistent wind during the growing season.
The wind lowers temperature but is also strong enough to close the vine stomata and slow photosynthesis and respiration.
177
Describe the topography of Carneros AVA
Relatively low-lying from San Pablo Bay to foothills up to 200m
178
What are the conditions like in the inland, northeast areas of Russian River Valley AVAs?
What varieties are grown?
Warmer than other areas of RRV, sheltered by hills from Pacific influence.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Zinfandel
riper styles of PN/Chard
179
Describe the location and topography of Santa Rita Hills AVA
Santa Rita Hills AVA is a sub-ava of Santa Ynez Valley and is located at its western edge, close to the Pacific. The east-west orientation is framed by Purisima Hills to the north and the Santa Rosa Hills to the south.
It is the first part of the Santa Ynez Valley area to receive the cold fogs/breeze in the afternoon through the Transverse Ranges.
The hilly terrain with diverse soils leads to a wide range of different site conditions.
180
What grape varieties is Dry Creek Valley AVA best known for?
What other grape varieties are produced?
Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc
Cab Sauv, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cab Franc as well as Rhône varieties - Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan, Cinsaut
181
What is the key feature of Edna Valley AVA?
It is known for being one of the coolest areas in California.
The valley is located just 8km from the Pacific Ocean and is oriented northwest-southeast and receives cold air/breezes from Morro Bay to the north.
182
Describe the climate and cooling influences present in Alexander Valley AVA
Warm climate
Cooled in the evenings by cold air funneled through the Petaluma Gap and Russian River Valley
183
Significant producers in Santa Cruz Mountains AVA
Ridge Vineyards
Mount Eden Vineyards
184
Significant producers of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Screaming Eagle
Harlan Esate
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars
Grgich Hills Estate
185
Significant producers Sonoma Coast AVA
Aubert
Occidental
186
What varieties are grown in Mendocino county?
The coastal areas (eg Anderson Valley) tend to specialize in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and aromatic whites.
More inland areas (eg Redwood Valley) are able to ripen Cab Sauv, Syrah, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah. Though those at high altitude (eg Potter Valley) can still ripen aromatic whites eg Sauv, Riesling.
187
Describe the trade structure in California
5,900 grape growers
4,800 bonded wineries
*Many producers own vineyards, but it is common to buy grapes from other producers and/or sell grapes to other producers
*Bought-in wine can be blended in to create a regional blend or kept separate. This helps extend the range of offering which can be beneficial for wine club, cellar door
*Estate wineries do exist but typically very small
188
Where is Alexander Valley AVA located?
The northwest corner of Sonoma county.
189
Who pioneered the labelling of California wine with the name of a grape variety and place name rather than the name of a European wine (eg Chablis)?
Robert Mondavi
190
Why is Napa Valley protected from pressure by housing development?
Though it is very close to San Francisco, the Napa Valley has been protected by the Napa Valley Agricultural Preserve which offered tax benefits to people who kept rather than developed vineyard land.
Today nearly 90% of land in Napa is under a high level of protection from development.
191
Describe Santa Ynez Valley AVA
A large AVA covering both cool coastal areas and warmer inland areas
4 sub-AVAs
192
What are the two main areas of Arroyo Seco AVA?
What grape varieties do they each grow?
Arroyo Seco Canyon and Salinas Valley floor
Within the canyon, vineyards are more sheltered from Pacific influence and grow Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel
Valley floor more exposed to afternoon breezes, growing Chardonnay and Riesling
193
Describe the climate of Bennett Valley AVA
Surrounded by hills leading to warm, sheltered conditions during the day
A break in the hills let in cool breezes and fog at night
194
How are vines typically trained in Lodi?
How are some older vines trained?
Usually cordon-trained and VSP-trellised*
Bush vines
| *replacement cane would take too much labor
195
Soils in Paso Robles
Calcareous soils (uncommon in Calif.) found throughout much of the AVA
Some areas have a clay-texture soil and moderate rainfall meaning dry farming is possible
196
What are wines produced in Central Valley generally labeled?
California
There is no AVA for Central Valley, San Joaquin Valley or Sacramento Valley
197
Describe the style, quality and price of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
Medium body, medium(+) acidity and fresh raspberry, cherry and plum fruit
Quality: good to outstanding
Price: Premium, some super-premium
198
What is the general quality level and price of wines from Santa Barbara County?
Good to outstanding
Mid to super premium
199
Where is Carneros AVA located?
Between Napa and Sonoma counties with San Pablo Bay to the south
200
What mountain ranges influence the climate in Lake County?
The county is in the rain shadow of the Mayacamas Mountains to the west and the Vaca Range to the east.
Results in a warm climate
201
What is the size of Napa Valley?
What is the area under vine?
What geographical features border it?
50km long by 8km wide
18,200ha
Mayacamas mountains to the east shelter the valley from the Pacific. Vaca mountains to the west protect the valley from the hot Central Valley. Open to San Pablo Bay in the south. Cool air and fog is pulled in from the bay as vineyard temperatures warm in the afternoon.
202
What is the general style of Cabernet Sauvignon wines from the Yountville, Stags Leap, Oakville and Rutherford AVAs?
Concentrated ripe fruit, med(+) to full body and high ripe tannins and juicy blackberry, plum and blackcurrant flavors with spice (licorice, clove) or herbs.
Generally rounder and fruiter in youth than the more structured wines from the mountainside AVAs
203
North Coast AVA encompasses large parts of which four counties?
Mendocino, Lake, Napa, Sonoma
204
Describe the style of California Pinot Noir
There are two main styles
Medium(+) acidity, medium body and alcohol, red, fresh fruit flavors
Those with greater body and alcohol, medium-medium(+) acidity and black fruit or jammy flavors
*increased use of whole bunch
*new French oak common
205
Where are vineyards planted in the Alexander Valley AVA?
On the west/southwest facing slopes and benchlands of the Mayacamas mountains
Valley floor
Elevations 100-750m
Aspect and altitude = long hours of sunshines leading high levels of color and tannins
Altitude helps to preserve acidity
206
Two weather hazards in California
Spring frosts: typically combatted by sprinklers and frost fans
Wildfires, smoke taint
