California Flashcards
What are the most planted black varieties in California?
(5)
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Zinfandel
Pinot Noir
Syrah
What are the most planted white varieties in California?
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
What are the major natural factors that influence Californian vineyards?
(4)
California Current (cold ocean winds)
Fog - impact night temp, helps retain acidity
Mountains - help protect, gaps allow cooling influences
Low rainfall - (drip irrigation to combat)
Where do you find high-quality examples of Merlot in California?
(3)
Monterey
Napa
Sonoma
Where do you find high-quality examples of Pinot Noir in California?
(3)
Russian River Valley
Los Carneros
Santa Maria Valley
Where do you find high-quality examples of Chardonnay in California?
(2)
Los Carneros
Russian River Valley
What wines is Anderson Valley known for?
Riesling, Gerwurtztraminer, Sparkling wines
Very cool climate
What wine is Alexander Valley known for?
Cabernet Sauvignon
soft-textured, full-bodied
What wines is Dry Creek Valley known for?
(2)
Old-vine ZInfandel
Hillsides above the fog
Sauvignon Blanc
Valley floor - under the fogline
What wines is Russian River Valley AVA known for?
Pinot Noir
Chardonnay
Sparkling wines
Cool foggy conditions - Petaluma Gap
What wines is Los Carneros AVA known for?
Pinot Noir
Chardonnay
TM Sparkling wines
Cooling afternoon breezes from San Pablo Bay
