The Napa Valley - A Short Guide
Napa Valley Terroir
The Napa Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area), lies north of San Francisco Bay, is 30 miles long, ranges from 1 to 5 miles wide and is central to the Californian wine industry.
Napa Valley is special because it is home to diverse micro-climates and soils that are perfect for the cultivation of fine wine grape varietals.
Napa Valley Varietals
Cabernet Sauvignons or 'Cal Cabs' are the big boys of Napa and many of these wines will be as expensive, if not more so, as many classed French Clarets. You will often hear Californian wines (many from the Napa Valley) referred to as 'Cult Wines' after reaching massive prices at auction in recent years. Here's a breakdown of the characteristics you will find in these and other Napa wines:
Cabernet Sauvignon: the King of Napa Red Wines. Some vines dating back to the 19th century are still producing wine, however most have been replanted in the last 20 years. Characteristics to look for: blackcurrents, blackberries, green olives, asparagus, piementos and leather in more aged wines. Napa Cabernet Sauvignon wines age beautifully. Try with hearty meat dishes as well as cheese.
Chardonnay: the most widely planted grape variety in the Napa Valley since the 70s. Controversially, Napa Valley Chardonnays have beaten white Burgundy in recent tastings around the globe (much to the disapproval of our French neighbours). Napa Valley Chardonnay wines can range from crisp with twists of tropical fruits, to rich and buttery with layers of flavour. Chicken and fish dishes are good bets to try with Napa Chardonnays.
Merlot: Merlot wines show cherry like aromas and can be drunk earlier due to their soft tannins. However don't under estimate Napa Merlot wines because they will develop into wines of finesse and complexity. Try Napa Merlots with pork or veal dishes.
Pinot Noir: a fickle little fella but given time Pinot Noir will reward you with some of the greatest wines on earth (think Burgundy reds). Pinot Noir wines are lighter than Cabernet and Merlot with less tannins. Drink them after 2 - 5 years but the good ones will age on and on. Enjoy alone, with a special friend and savour.
Sangiovese: an Italian red varietal that makes super medium bodied wines that can be drunk young. Hints of cherries, black tea and spice, Sangiovese wines can be enjoyed at a barbecues or with a simple picnic.
Zinfandel: synonomous with California, Zinfandel produces friendly versatile wines. Red 'Zins' make light, easy drinking wines when young and as they age they'll develop into heavier bodied, richly flavoured scrumptuous wines. You'll be able to find a Zinfandel red wine to go with just about any food - just buy and try. NB: Purists will avoid white Zinfandel to the death. We invite your comments!
Sauvignon Blanc: a mainstay of the New World these wines are very popular due to their crisp, herbaceous, cut grass freshness. Napa Sauvignon Blancs are delightful with Seafood and Shellfish.
Napa's Top Wine Producing Regions
AVAs producing some top wines are predominantly from Rutherford, St Helena, Oakville, Howell Mountain, Mount Veeder and Stags Leap District.
Big Napa Names
The Hess Collection (Mount Veeder), Stags Leap Wine Cellars (Stags Leap District), Clos du Val (Stags Leap District), Robert Mondavi (Oakville), Opus One (Oakville), Rubicon Estate (formerly Niebaum-Coppolla, Rutherford), Frogs Leap (Rutherford).
Big Brother's Little Brother - Sonoma County
Sonoma, north-west of Napa, is 200,000 acres stretching from the rugged Pacific coast to the Mayacamas Mountains. Sonoma produces some outstanding fine wines, notably Pinot Noir due to the slightly cooler climate.
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