Varietals
Great wine begins with great grapes. Capitalizing on the state’s diverse geography and climates, California wine-grape growers can grow a wide range of grape varieties and styles. The Golden State boasts more than 100 different varieties of wine grapes, thanks to its diverse topography, soils, climates and growers.
With respect for tradition and a propensity for innovation, California’s wine-grape growers are able to produce some of the best grapes, and wines, in the world. Here’s a look at some of California’s most notable wine grapes:
Emerging Varieties
California’s wine-grape growers are known for innovation, and many are experimenting with lesser-known varieties that are new to most Americans. Some of these varieties are gaining traction and the wines can increasingly be found on restaurant wine lists and at fine wine shops nationwide.
Whites
Rousanne (Roo-san) – With elegant flavors and a rich
texture, this wine often carries notes of herbs and flowers.
Viognier (Vee-on-yay) – An exotically flavored grape that is often blended with other wines, viognier has become more popular as a stand-alone varietal among California vintners.
Reds
Barbera (Bar-BARE-ah) – This grape features black fruit
flavors that result in a rich, satisfying wine.
Carignane (ker-rih-gan) – A highly acidic grape with strong tannins, this varietal is often blended with other wines.
Grenache (Gren-ash) – This sturdy grape yields fleshy, peppery wines with intense fruit flavors.
Sangiovese (san-jo-VAY-say) – Native to Tuscany, this medium-bodied wine carries dry, hearty cherry flavors with earthy tones.
Tempranillo (Tem-pra-nee-yo) – Growing well in warm climates, tempranillo produces wines that are hearty, acidic and often described as having characteristics of bright cherries or strawberries.
Varietal grape photos: Copyright © The Regents of the University of California.
