California Wines

Question 1

What are the signature grape varieties in California?

Answer 1

white - chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, chenin blanc, white zinfandel; red - zinfandel, merlot, pinot nior, syrah

Question 2

What are the geographic factors that influence grape growing in California?

Answer 2

mountain ranges, valleys, rivers, and coastal fog; generally warm to hot but variable due to ocean influence; low rain in summer (irrigation needed)

Question 3

how does temperature influence viticulture?

Answer 3

cooler - difficult ripening, less sugar, more acid; warmer - easy ripening, higher sugar, less acid

Question 4

What winemaking practices are legal in California?

Answer 4

acidification (warm climates) and chapitalization (cool climates)

Question 5

What are the two biggest wine regions in California?

Answer 5

Napa Valley, Sonoma County

Question 6

What are some wine labeling laws unique to California?

Answer 6

Generic labels can indicate a place name from a famous region elsewhere (eg Champagne) or a famous wine style (eg Sherry); Alcohol content only has to be listed if >14%

Question 7

Who is Robert Mondavi?

Answer 7

left Charley Krug wineries in St. Helena; considered the godfather of modern California wines