California wine--an American classic

When most people think of wine, two locales attract more attention than any others--France and California. Both offer so many varieties from different environs that a connoisseur could spend a lifetime sampling them all. But where should a beginner start? It is easier to know once you understand a little about the different wines, including the regions where they are produced, the types of grapes used, and what bottle labels reveal.

California wine is produced primarily in five key areas: the central coast, the Sierra foothills, the south coast, the central valley, and the north coast, which encompasses the vineyards in the popular Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, and Lake County areas. The entire region is highly respected for its excellent Cabernet, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Syrah varieties. The Golden State has been involved in commercial winemaking since the mid-1800s, and it currently boasts over 1,300 wineries.

Golden-West-Wine.com carries offerings from a number of California wine makers, including full-flavored Cabernet from Diamond Creek and Opus One and smooth, rich Merlot from Arietta, Blakiet, and Twomey.

France has an even longer winemaking history. Beginning in the 18th century, wines from France gained popularity and became dominant in the world market. In the 19th century and first half of the 20th century, however, vineyards in France suffered first from the effects of disease and pests and then from war.

In 1935, after the world experienced a decline in the quality and availability of fine French wines, the Appellation d'Origine Controlee (AOC, or regulated origin name) for wines was devised. The AOC provided a marker to define a wine's regional origin.

French wines are now regulated, and labels must carry information designed to notify the customer about the authenticity of a wine. Labels for AOC wines and Vin de Pays carry the regional designation, geographic area of production, bottler name, bottle volume, and degree of alcohol content. In addition to these, Champagne labels include information on residual sugar levels, the brand name, winemaker name, and location of production, along with official registration information. French table wines carry the "Vin de Table Francais" designation and information about the bottler, bottle volume, and degree of alcohol content.

Golden-West-Wine.com has specialized in wines from the Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne regions since 1975. All our products are carefully selected for character and quality. We invite you to travel through our selection of wines from around the world.