The topics covered in this class include:
NEW WORLD
- Experimentation with varieties, grapegrowing and winemaking
- Minimal regulatory limitations
- Varietal labeling
CALIFORNIA's DIVERSITY
- Large size of state and wide range of climates
- Many major varieties:
- Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Syrah
- Uniting factor is sunshine and fruit-forward character
CALIFORNIA's SUNSHINE AND CHILLY MARITIME BREEZES
- Exposure to Pacific Ocean is key to counteracting hot sun
- Chilly Pacific Ocean breezes and fog blow through gaps in Coastal Range
- Latitude is less important
CALIFORNIA's MAJOR APPELLATIONS
Napa Valley
- Long, narrow valley north of San Francisco, east of Sonoma County
- Maritime breezes and fog in south closer to San Pablo Bay
- Warmer further north
- Altitude cools and lifts some vineyards above fog line
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir
- Up the Middle, from South to North >...
