Ch. 22-26 – USA Flashcards
1
Q
AVAs
A
American Viticultural Areas
- no regulations on grapes or winemaking
Designated regions with unique geological or geographical features
Proposed via peitition by growers and reviewed by the TTB.
Areas within an AVA with distinct microclimates or terrain can be ‘sub AVAs’ or ‘Nested AVAs’
2
Q
Appellations of Origin (US)
A
Defined by political boudaries (county, state)
Min 75% of grapes must come from that appellation
Wine must be fully finished in that state
3
Q
Requirement when wine is labeled with variety (US)
A
75% of the wine must be from that grape variety
Two or more can be stated if label shows their percentages
4
Q
Requirement when wine is labeled with appellation of origin (US)
A
75% of grapes must come from the stated county, state or country of origin.
Vintage can be declared if 85% of wine was produced in stated vintage
5
Q
Requirement when wine is labeled with AVA
A
85% of grapes must come from that AVA.
The wine must be fermented and finished in that state.
Vintage may be stated if at least 95% of wine comes from that vintage.
6
Q
General wine business in US
A
Highest value import sales and highest global consumption
- BUT low consumption per capita
4th largest producer
- BUT 8th in export volume
- majority is consumed domestically
Fifty largest companies represent more than 90% of US wine sold domestically by volume
- Gallo, Constellation Brands
Three-tier system
- different laws in every state
- increasing number of states allow DTC sales
- cellar doors and wine clubs
7
Q
California Climate
A
Cold Pacific Ocean
- California current brings cold water from the north
- Upwelling, where cold deep water rises to the surface
Mediterranean, dry seasons
Coast Ranges provide shelter from the ocean (but have some gaps)
- Vineyards without ocean influence are warm
Warm air raises and pulls in cold air from the coast, giving high diurnal range
- reduction of fungal diseases and frost but can be strong enough to close stomata
- Fog forms during afternoons and can last into mornings
- Strong sunshine above fog layer (altitude provides some moderation though)
8
Q
Vineyard management in California
A
1990s saw large scale replanting due to phylloxera, Pierce’s disease and better understanding of vineyard management
- greater attention to matching rootstock to environment
- nowadays, focus on precision viticulture
Skilled Mexican labor
- Central Valley is set up for mechanization, which is also becoming more common elsewhere
Irrigation widespread
- drought reducing water supplies
- greater monitoring and regulaton of water use by state
Reduced fungal disease threat from low rainfall and breezes
Pierce’s disease (sharpshooters), Spring frost, wildfires (smoke taint)
Sustainable grape growing is a focus
- Certified organic wine requires ZERO SO2 added, so is uncommon
- “Certified organic grapes” can be used if the grapes are grown organically
9
Q
wine labelled ‘California’ must be:
A
made entirely from grapes grown in the state
10
Q
California wine labelled with vineyard name must be:
A
made from at least 95% grapes grown on that vineyard
11
Q
Labelling term ‘estate bottled’ can be used when in California
A
vineyards and winery are in the same AVA
12
Q
Types of growers and producers in California
A
Many producers buy in grapes to supplement their own production
Many producers act as merchants or grower-merchants
- allows producers to enlarge their portfolio of wines
Also many independent growers
- head-grafting of vines is common to keep up with changing consumer preferences
- grape prices vary based on supply and demand
- prices can be much higher for prestigious vineyards or AVAs
Wineries range from “cult” wines making small volumes to massive conglomerates
13
Q
Main grape varieties in California
A
Chardonnay
Cabernet Sauvignon
Pinot Noir
Zinfandel
Merlot
Colombard
Syrah
Pinot Gris
Sauvignon Blanc
Petitie Sirah
14
Q
Chardonnay in California
A
Full spectrum of styles
Usually near coastal influence or at high altitudes
Fuller-bodied styles w/ peach, pineapple, notes from oak and malo
Leaner styles (citrus, less oak, reductive aromas from lees contact)
Inexpensive versions made in easy-drinking style with medium acidity, possibly with residual sugar and/or oak alternatives
15
Q
Cabernet Sauvignon in California
A
Site is influential
Moderating influence
- fresher style of black fruit, herbal aroma, less body, lower alcohol.
Concentrated wines
- green harvest, long hang times, full body high alcohol
High percentage of new French oak (but less than in the past)
Also blended with Bordeaux varieties
16
Q
Pinot Noir in California
A
On relatively cool sites with coastal influence or altitude
Med+ acidity, med body, med alcohol fresh cherry, raspberry
Riper fruit styles
- med to med+ acidity, greater body, black fruit, jammy
Trend towards earlier picking, whole bunch fermentation, and stem inclusion to enhance aromatics and tanning structure
Commonly matured in French oak, with a proportion new
17
Q
Zinfandel
A
number of old wines (100y+)
Prone to uneven ripening
Med+ acidity, fresh fruit + jammy notes, blueberry, blackberry
American oak usually for maturation (vanilla)
White Zinfandel style:
- short maceration before cool ferment in steel
- med dry, low alcohol, med acidity and body
- strawberry, fruit candy
18
Q
Merlot in California
A
Very popular in 1990s and 2000s
Much is inexpensive, very ripe and fruity
Some premium Merlot is made, particularly in more moderate climates (like Oak Knoll district)
Used in Bordeaux blends
19
Q
Colombard in California
A
neutral white grape
inexpensive wines
blended
‘fruity white’ or ‘dry white’
20
Q
Syrah in California
A
Areas with some cooling influence
med (med+) body, med+ acidity and tannin, fresh plum, blackberry, spice
21
Q
Pinot Gris in California
A
increasing
dry but fruity style
Peach pear, melon
22
Q
Sauvignon Blanc in California
A
fruity style (steel)
Fume Blanc - usually (not necessarily) fermented and matured in oak
23
Q
North Coast AVA
A
Encompasses a large number of AVAs (including Napa County, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Lake County)
Mayacamas Moutains run through it
24
Q
Mendocino County
A
cool AVAs close to the coast
- Pinot, Chardonnay
warmer AVAs inland
- Zinfandel, Cabernet, Syrah
- high altitude vineyards can do cool climate grapes
grapes often used in multi-regional blends
25
Anderson Valley AVA
Valley runs from northwest (close to the coast) to the southeast (further inland)
Most vineyards on slopes, frost can be problem, especially on flatter areas
Climate
- Warm days but cold air and fog is funneled inland along the Navarro River, giving cold evenings and mornings
- Plenty of rain, mostly in winter and spring
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (sparkling and still) - fresh styles
Alsace varieties
Producer: Littorai
26
Lake County (Clear Lake AVA)
In the rain shadow of Mayacamas Mountains (west) and Vaca Range (east)
- warm climate
Clear Lake provides cool afternoon breezes
Vineyards on slopes at 400-450m - moderating influence
Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc
Mostly multiregional blends (few prestigious producers)
27
3 large overlapping AVAs in Sonoma County
Northern Sonoma AVA
- Russian River flows through, filling aquifers
Sonoma Coast AVA
Sonoma Valley AVA
allow producers to use term 'estate bottled' even if their vineyards and winery are far apart
- while still allowing 'Sonoma' to appear on the bottle
28
Alexander Valley AVA
Northern Sonoma
Warm climate cooled in evenings by Pacific air funneled in from the Petaluma Gap and Russian River Valley to the south.
Fertile valley floor
Slopes of Mayacamas (more concentrated)
- long hours of sunshine
- free draining soil
- high color and tannin
- altitude helps with acidity
Moderate rainfall
Cabernet Sauvignon mainly - full body, ripe flavours, dried herbs, chocolate
Also Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel, Petit Verdot, Malbec
Producer: Kendall-Jackson
29
Knights Valley AVA
Northern Sonoma
Warmest area in Sonoma
- Furthest inland
- Surrounded by hills and sheltered from any cooling influence of the Pacific
Some cooling influence from altitude in the foothills of the Mayacamas
Cabernet Sauvignon (free draining volcanic soils)
Also: Merlot, Syrah
30
Dry Creek AVA
Northern Sonoma
Known for Zinfandel (and Sauvignon Blanc)
- old 100y+ wines
- Typical maturation in new oak (American is common)
Vineyards both of floor and slopes on both sides of Dry Creek River
Sheltered by coastal ranges = warm days
But mountains on either side of the valley funnel cool ocean air and fog from San Pablo Bay
- much cooler nights to retain acidity
Fresher styles:
- south of the valley; closer to the bay
- east-facing vineyards
Riper styles (more jammy and dried fruit):
- west-facing vineyards on east side of river
Free-draining gravelly soils
31
Rockpile AVA
Northern Sonoma
Steep rocky slopes. Vineyards have to be above 800ft
- variety of altitudes and aspects
- vineyards are above fog layer
- long hours of sunshine
Heavily influenced by snake-like Lake Sonoma
- creates inversion layer
- keeps vineyards relatively warm at night
Shallow soil on slopes + windy conditions = low yields and concentrated ripe fruit.
Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux varieties
32
Russian River Valley AVA
Northern Sonoma / Sonoma Coast
both flat and hilly
- moderate to warm climate
South and west are coolest
- fog and wind from Petaluma Gap
- slower accumulation of sugar, greater acidity
- free-draining soils, low in nutrients
- Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
- fresh style of Pinot, with med+ acidity and med body
- Chardonnay usually with malo and oak, peach, pineapple
Producer: La Crema
33
Green Valley of Russian River Valley AVA
Part of Russian River Valley AVA
Right next to Petaluma Gap
- first place to get fog and where it disappears last
- Coolest conditions in northern California
Free-draining poor soils, limiting vigor, creating small concentrated grapes
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (sparkling and still) with higher acidity than the rest of the Valley and fresher fruit
34
Chalk Hill AVA
Part of Russian River Valley AVA
Far inland, hilly area
- blocks some Pacific breezes
- warmer climate than rest of Russian River Valley
- volcanic ash soil (not chalk)
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc
35
Sonoma Coast AVA
Vineyards can be within a few miles of the coast and extremely exposed to ocean winds and fog
- fruit set is often disrupted and yields are low
Limited sunshine hours due to fog
Dominated by Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, in a fresher style, with higher acidity
Producer: Occidental
36
Fort Ross Seaview AVA
Sonoma Coast
Wines must be over 280m (above fog layer)
- long hours of sunshine and warmth compared to rest of the Sonoma Coast
- coastal winds still provide a moderating influence
Riper fruit than surrounding areas but still high acidity
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah
37
Petaluma Gap AVA
Sonoma Coast
Defined by its windy conditions
- Winds lower temperatures but can also cause stomata to close sometimes
Open to coast at both ends (from coast to San Pablo Bay). High speed winds flow through.
75% Pinot Noir, rest Chardonnay and Syrah
High acidity, fresh fruit flavours, lower alcohol
38
Sonoma Valley AVA
Bordered by Mayacamas mountains (east) and Sonoma mountains (west), which shelters the area from cold Pacific breezes
Southern part of AVA is open to San Pablo Bay therefore cooler
39
Sonoma Mountain AVA
East-facing steep slopes on Sonoma mountain range
Vineyards planted above the fog line
- intense sunlight
- warm days
- ripe flavors and tannins
Cold air coming down from mountains at night
- retain acidity
Free-draining volcanic soils
Concentrated, ripe Cabernet Sauvignon
- also Merlot, Syrah
- Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc grown in cooler sites, generally closer to the coast
40
Bennet Valley AVA
Small appellation
Surrounded by hills giving warm sheltered conditions during day
At night, cool air and fog gets into valley through break in the hills
Syrah, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay
41
Carneros AVA
Close to San Pablo Bay
- affected by fog and cold winds in morning and evening - days are warm and sunny
Low elevation appellation
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (some sparkling as well)
- ranges from fresher to riper styles
Some producers own vineyards in Carneros or buy in grapes from Carneros for higher acid blending material
Producer: Ramey
42
Napa Valley labeling
AVAs which qualify for sub-AVAs of Napa have to include 'Napa Valley' on the label
Napa Valley AVA covers the whole region
43
Napa Valley growing environment
Napa River
Mayacamas mountains (shelter from cold Pacific winds) Vaca mountains (protection from hot Central Valley)
Open to San Pablo Bay in south
Vineyards heat up during day, air rises and pulls in cold air from the bay up the valley in the afternoon. Valley floor is under layer of fog (high diurnal range)
44
AVAs affected by fog in Napa
and their grape varieties
Carneros (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir)
Coombsville (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay)
Oak Knoll (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Chardonnay)
Merlot and Cabernet tend to be lighter-bodied, with fresher fruit than from warmer AVAs
45
Napa AVAs on valley floor not affected by fog
and their grape varieties
Warm climate but nights still cooled by winds and fog:
- Yountville AVA
- Stags Leap District AVA
- Oakville AVA
- Rutherford AVA
- Cabernet Sauvignon is predominant, ripe, full-bodied, and fruiter in youth than the more structured wines from the mountains
- Sauvignon Blanc is the main white grape
- also Merlot, Zinfandel
Very little influence from San Pablo Bay:
- Calistoga AVA (night-time cooling influence from Pacific through Chalk Hill gap)
- St Helena AVA
- warm to hot
- Cabernet, Merlot, Zinfandel
46
Best known valley floor area in Napa
The Rutherford Bench
gently sloping alluvial fan at the bottom of Mayacamas range
47
Napa mountain AVAs
- above fog layer
- longer hours of sunshine
- cooling influence from altitude
- lower diurnal range
- higher levels of tannins and acidity
West-facing slopes (generally on east side of valley) tend to be warmer, making riper wine
Mount Veeder AVA
- coolest AVA; Cabernet can struggle to ripen
Atlas Peak AVA
- relatively cool but does get the afternoon sun
Spring Mountain District AVA and Diamond Mountain District AVA
- both are slightly cooler
Howel Mountain AVA
- one of the warmest Napa AVAs
- very concentrated ripe Cabernet with high firm tannins
48
3 different soil types within Napa
Mountains
- thin, poor soil
Valley
- silt, clay (formed by Napa River flooding)
- highest fertility and water holding capacity
- less structured wines
Alluvial fans, aka 'benches'
- created at the bottom of the mountains
- west side of the valley
- deposition of sediments by mountain streams
- deep, rocky, moderate fertility
49
Vineyard management in Napa
Mainly cordon or replacement spur with VSP.
Valley floor mechanized
- steeper mountain vineyards are worked by hand
Drip irrigation common
Frost can be problem on valley floor
- air movement and warmer nights reduce the risk in mountain vineyards
50
Expanding vineyards in Napa
Legislation prohibits planting vines on slopes steeper than 30%
Tax benefit for people who keep vineyards rather than building upon it
51
Napa winemaking
In 1980s and 1990s, very full-bodied intense wines
- long hang time
- lots of new oak
More diverse styles today
- general trend is for more restraint
- earlier picking
- less time in oak
Well-resourced wineries
- e.g. optical sorting
Blending:
- different soil types
- cooler regions and warmer regions
Some single-vineyard wines from prestigious vineyards, like To Kalon
52
Central Coast AVA
Large AVA running from San Francisco to Santa Barbara.
Southern Coast Ranges have a large influence on climate
Cooled by winds funneling in through gaps in the coastal mountains
- at some points, the coastal ranges change to an east-west orientation, funneling in air
53
Livermore Valley AVA
Cold winds from San Francisco Bay in the afternoon traveling toward Central Vineyards
Free-draining stony soils
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel
concentrated, ripe flavors and tannins with fresh acidity
Home to some of the oldest wineries in US - Wente and Concannon Vineyards who brought cuttings from Europe
54
Santa Cruz Mountains AVA
Most vineyards at high altitudes (up to 800m)
- cooling influence during the day
- at night, cold air slips down slopes, forcing warm air upwards = relatively warm nights (avoiding frost)
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
Eastern side is warmer
- Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
Producer: Mount Eden Vineyards
55
Monterey AVA
follows Salinas River Valley (moderated by cool marine air funneled from Monterey Bay)
Monterey Bay
- water is deep and cold
- afternoons and evenings are very windy and cool
North (cooler):
- Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling
Inland (warmer):
- Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel
Free-draining sandy loam and gravel (irrigation essential)
Mechanization on valley floor
- inexpensive, cross-regional blends
56
Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
Southeast facing alluvial terraces (up to 350m) exposed to winds and fog
- can be windy enough to close stomata
Elevation takes advantage of morning sunshine before afternoon maritime breezes.
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah
Fresh flavor and high acidity
57
Arroyo Seco AVA
From the Arroyo Seco canyon to the Salinas Valley floor
Vineyards within canyon
- more sheltered from coastal influence
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel
Vineyards on valley floor
- exposed to afternoon breezes
- Chardonnay, Riesling
58
Chalone AVA
in the Gabilan Mountain Range (around 550m)
- above fog line
Warm days with long hours of sunshine, cooler nights (retention of acidity)
Granite, limestone soils
- free draining
- low yields of concentrated grapes
Known for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
59
Carmel Valley AVA
Vineyards in Cachagua Valley (further inland)
- up to 670m and above fog line
- can be sheltered from coastal influences
- some of the warmest places in Monterey
- altitude means cool nights
- Cabernet Merlot
Vineyards in Carmel Valley (closer to coast)
- Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
60
AVAs of Monterey County
Monterey AVA
Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
Arroyo Seco AVA
Chalone AVA
Carmel Valley AVA
61
AVAs of San Luis Obispo County
Paso Robles AVA
Edna Valley AVA
Arroyo Grande Valley AVA
62
Paso Robles AVA
has 11 sub-AVAs
- must still state "Paso Robles"on the label
Valley floors, hills, and mountains (up to 670m)
Eastern part
- warmer
- more concentrated, riper
Western part
- nearer Pacific
- higher acidity, fresher
- The Templeton Gap
- low point in Coastal Range that allows Pacific air to reach inland
- moderating influence
Calcareous soils (rare in California)
- in areas with moderate rainfall, producers can dry-farm
Cabernet (40%)
- also Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel
- also known for black and white Rhone varieties
Producer: Tablas Creek
63
Edna Valley AVA
One of coolest AVAs in California (5miles from Pacific)
Cool fog and wind from Morro Bay (north)
High quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (still/sparkling)
64
Arroyo Grande Valley AVA
One of the cooler areas in California
Warm, sunny days
Funneling of fog and wind through valley
- cool nights
- high acidity
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay (still/sparkling)
- Zinfandel, Syrah in areas further inland
65
AVAs of Santa Barbara County
Santa Maria Valley AVA
Santa Ynez Valley AVA
- Sta. Rita Hills AVA
- Ballard Canyon AVA
- Los Olivos AVA
- Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA
66
Santa Barbara County
general topography, grapes, producers, legislation
Located in Transverse Ranges
- east-west orientation of the Southern Coast Ranges
- western part faces Pacific and funnels cooling breezes and fog
Air circulation reduces risk of fungal diseases and frost
- allows grapes some extra hang time, which can be needed
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir mainly (up to super premium)
- Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rhone varieties
Producer: Sine Qua Non
Legislation prohibits cellar door at winery, must be in the city instead
67
Santa Maria Valley AVA
valley runs west to east
- consistently funneling cold air from Pacific
- keeping temperatures cool
100-250m on slopes
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
68
Santa Ynez Valley AVA
both cool coastal and warm inland temperatures
4 sub-AVAs
- Sta Rita Hills
- Ballard Canyon
- Los Olivos District
- Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara
69
Sta. Rita Hills AVA
Within the Santa Ynez Valley AVA
Cool temperatures and calcium rich soils
Framed by Purisima Hills (north) and Santa Rosa Hills (south)
Closest to Pacific
- first area to receive cool fog and breezes that funnel inland through Transverse Ranges
Hilly and diverse soils
- variety of different conditions
Pinot Noir (signature), Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Syrah
Low supply + high demand = premium prices
70
Ballard Canyon AVA
Within the Santa Ynez Valley AVA
Canyon runs north-to-south
- shelters vineyards from cool breezes from west
Does get overnight fog
- cooler nights
Syrah, Grenache due to warmer conditions
71
Los Olivos AVA
Within the Santa Ynez Valley AVA
Warm sunny days
Low altitude and not much fog
- low diurnal range
Bordeaux, Rhone and Italian varieties
72
Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA
Within the Santa Ynez Valley AVA
- furthest inland
- also, valley shifts orientation to north-south and blocks Pacific breezes
- warm temperatures
Cooling influence from altitude and exposure to afternoon winds
- high diurnal range
Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc
73
Central Valley general information and grapes
consists of 2 valleys
- Sacramento Valley
- San Joaqin Valley
High yielding vineyards on flat fertile sites
- very warm
- very ripe grapes
Colombard, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Merlot
E&J Gallo
Usually labelled 'California'.. no AVA for Central Valley
74
Lodi AVA
Hot mediterranean climate moderated by cooling afternoon winds from San Francisco Bay and Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta
Flat land
- breezes from the Bay can travel far inland
Irrigation needed
- soil is free-draining
Windy conditions
- less risk of frost and disease
Cordon, VSP usual
- some old bush vines as well
Known for Zinfandel (bush vines)
- wide range of varieties can ripen - Rhone, Southern France, Bordeaux, Spanish, Portugese, German, Italian
- can be part of an inexpensive multi-regional blend or can be labeled as Lodi AVA
Producer: Ravenswood
'Lodi Rules' sustainability program
75
Sub-AVA of Lodi AVA name and labelling
7 sub-AVAs
Mokelumne River AVA
- majority of Lodi's wineries
- old Zinfandel bush vines
Must state 'Lodi' on label along with sub-AVA name
76
Clarksburg AVA
Central Valley
Hot days regulated by afternoon breezes from Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta
Known for Chenin Blanc and Petite Sirah
Majority goes to "California" blends, rather than AVA
77
Sierra Foothills AVA
Western foothills of the Sierra Nevadas
Day time temps are hot
- cool air descends from mountains at night
- high diurnal range
- high altitude also helps to manage sugar levels (up to 1000m+)
Sandy clay loam
- retains water to allow dry farming
Old vine Zinfandel
- also Rhone, Italian, Spanish varieties
78
South Coast AVA
Low latitude
Cooled by Pacific breezes and/or altitude
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Chenin Blanc
79
Oregon climate
Most vineyards close to Pacific, but Coast Range provides some protection
Cool to moderate climate
- Cold ocean currents and winds from Pacific
Long daylight hours in the summer and autumn
High levels of rainfall
- mainly falls in winter
- summers are fairly dry
80
Soil in Oregon
Free-draining marine sedimentary
Volcanic
Loess
81
Sustainable and organic viticulture in Oregon
wind and dry summers reduce disease pressure
Emphasizes sustainable, organic and biodynamic
Half of all Demeter Biodynamic vineyards in US are in Oregon
82
Grape varieties in Oregon
Dominated by Pinot Noir (57%)
Pinot Gris (but being overtaken by Chardonnay)
Syrah
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Riesling
Clonal selection is very important
- Traditionally using Wadenswil and Pommard
- Now also using Dijon clones
- permits greater clonal diversity
- allows growers to match clone to climate, soil, and desired wine style
- some California clones (e.g. Wente) didn't ripen well in the cooler climate, but with warmer vintages, some are moving towards those clones
83
Oregon Pinot Noir expression and winemaking
+ Producers
Use of whole bunches increasing
Experimentation
- ambient yeast
- storage vessels, e.g. amphorae
Majority aged in oak with proportion of new
- new oak decreasing though
Med(+) acidity, med (+) tannins, often high alcohol
Red cherry, raspberry to black cherry and plum
Producer: Bergstrom Wines
84
Oregon Pinot Gris
Both dry and off-dry style
- trend toward drier styles
Range of winemaking techniques:
- whole-bunch pressing, cool fermentation in stainless (fruity styles)
- skin contact, old barrels and lees contact to increase texture and complexity
Med-full bodied, med (+) acidity, pear, peach, melon, sometimes nutty, honey
85
Oregon Chardonnay
Med(+) acidity and body, lemon, peach
Whole-bunch pressing, fermentation and maturation in old oak.
Full malolactic and lees contact common.
- lees usually left without stirring to encourage slight reduction (smoky, struck match)
86
General conditions in Willamette Valley AVA
Coast Range to the west provides some protection but various parts are affected by cold Pacific winds
One of the coolest and wettest areas of Oregon, but still benefits from warm, dry summers with long hours of sunshine.
High diurnal range in summer
- air raises from warm central Oregon and causes cool coastal air to be pulled inland
- lack of humidity in air during dry growing season means temperatures can rise and fall quickly
Legislation prohibits use of water from rivers to all but longest-established producers
- would need to build a pond
- not economical for small producers
- many dry farm as a result, if rainfall and soil permit
87
Soils in Willamette Valley AVA
and training systems to regulate growth
Fertile loam on valley floors (suited to Pinot Gris)
- For Pinot Noir, vigor has to be managed (Scott-Henry training)
Lower fertility on slopes
- mixture of marine sedimentary soil, volcanic basalt and loess
- cordon or cane with VSP
88
Willamette Valley AVA sub-AVAs
Dundee Hills AVA
Chehalem Mountains AVA
Ribbon Ridge AVA
Yamhill-Carlton District AVA
Van Duzer Corridor AVA
Eola-Amity Hills AVA
McMinnville AVA
89
Dundee Hills AVA
first Pinot Noir was planted here
Warmer than other AVAs
- mountains shelter from cold wet conditions
- Coast Range to the west
- Chehalem Mountains to the north
Volcanic hills (up to 325m)
- higher altitude than the rest of Willamette
- helps to retain acidity
clay soil
- important for water retention
90
Chehalem Mountains AVA
Range of altitude, aspects and soil types
- up to 300m
Highest number of plantings
91
Ribbon Ridge AVA
Low altitude
Protected from wind by surrounding ranges
- consistently warm, dry conditions
Concentrated ripe grapes
92
Yamhill-Carlton District AVA
In the foothills of the Coast Range
- creates a rain shadow
South-facing slopes (up to 300m)
Sheltered location
- riper fruit, fuller body, lower acidity
93
Van Duzer Corridor AVA
break in Coast Range funnels in Pacific Ocean winds during the afternoon
- can disrupt flowering and fruit set
- can cause stomata to close
- helps to retain acidity, slow sugar accumulation while flavors develop
- reduces disease pressure
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Eola-Amity Hills AVA
Ridge of hills (up to 250m)
Influenced by winds from Van Duzer Corridor
- slower ripening
range of aspects and altitudes (regulates how much vineyards are affected by wind)
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McMinnville AVA
Some sites are protected from wind by Coast Range
Some are influenced by cool winds from Van Duzer Corridor
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Southern Oregon AVA general conditions and sub-AVAs
Warmer than Willamette
- cooling influence from altitude
- mountain air descending at night
- breezes channeled through river valleys in evening
- high diurnal range
Growing season is dry
- irrigation essential (rainfall in winter)
Soils:
- marine sedimentary and volcanic (both contain clay)
- alluvial (more free-draining)
Dry-farmed vineyards are usually planted with Rhone varieties
Pinot Noir (40%), Pinot Gris, Syrah, Cabernet
Umpqua Valley AVA and Rogue Valley AVA
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Umpqua Valley AVA
Southern Oregon AVA
confluence of 3 mountain ranges
- Coast Range
- Cascade Range
- Klamath Mountains
Diverse range of altitudes (up to 400m), aspects, and soils
North
- relatively cool (breezes from Umpqua River gorge)
- Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, Riesling
Central/South
- warmer
- Syrah, Merlot, Tempranillo
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Rogue Valley AVA
Southern Oregon AVA
Warmest and driest conditions in Oregon
Cooling influence from altitude (250-950m)
- Klamath Mountains
- Cascade Range
Cool afternoon/evening breezes from Pacific
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Pinot Noir
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Multi-state appelations in Oregon/Washington
- Columbia Gorge
- Columbia Valley
- Walla Walla Valley
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Walla Walla Valley AVA (Oregon)
arid continental climate with hot dry summers
nearly 40% Cabernet Sauvignon (then Merlot, Syrah)
Rocks District of Milton-Freewater Sub-AVA
- basalt stones and gravel
- radiated warmth adds ripeness
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Columbia Gorge AVA
Western side
- cooler, wetter,
Eastern side
- warmer, drier
Cooling influences
- altitude
- winds funneled by the gorge
Range of conditions = number of varieties grown
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Oregon labeling laws
100% grapes must be grown in Oregon
95% of grapes must come from appellation on the label
If a variety is stated, min 90% of that grape
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Oregon wine business
75% of producers are small family-owned wineries
Mostly estate-grown fruit
Huge growth in # of wineries in last two decades
- investment from other states, e.g. California
- investment from other countries, like France
25% DTC sales (cellar door, wine clubs)
- remainder sold domestically
- very little exported
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General conditions in Washington state and history
Cascade Mountains block wet Pacific weather
- dry, warm conditions
Viticulture grew with irrigation from melt-water from Cascades
1969
- began allowing import of wines from outside of state
- industry quickly improved
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Grape varieties grown in Washington
Wide range, without anything dominant
Top 5:
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling, Syrah
Ripe fruit flavours, sometimes high alcohol, but often with high acidity (due to cool nights)
High proportion of new oak
Proportion of whole bunch or stems can be used for Syrah
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Wine Regions in Washington state
Columbia Valley AVA
Yakima Valley AVA
- Red Montain AVA
- Rattlesnake Hills AVA
Horse Heaven Hills AVA
Wahluke Slope AVA
Walla Walla Valley AVA
Columbia Gorge AVA
Puget Sound AVA
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Columbia Valley AVA
covers 1/3 of Washington state (and 99% of whole production)
Sheltered by Cascade Range
- Desert-like conditions
- continental hot summers, cold winters
- long daylight hours
- high diurnal range (good acidity)
Sugar accumulates quickly during summer but cool autumn slows down ripening (allowing full flavor ripeness)
Basalt bedrock with sandy topsoils
- Free draining, low in nutrients
- irrigation is essential
Low phylloxera risk (sand)
- own roots
Low disease pressure
Frost and winter freeze are main hazards
- planting on slopes
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling, Syrah
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Yakima Valley AVA
Similar climate to wider Columbia Valley AVA, with same range of varieties
Some colder sides for whites, and warmer sites for reds
Mostly planted on slopes (avoiding frost)
Sub-AVAs - Red Mountains AVA and Rattlesnake Hills AVA
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Red Mountain AVA
sub-AVA of Yakima Valley AVA
vineyards on elevated ridges facing south-west
- some of the warmest vineyards in the state
- high diurnal range preserves acidity
low yields of concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon (often full body, high alcohol)
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Rattlesnake Hills AVA
sub-AVA of Yakima Valley AVA
South facing slopes at higher altitudes
- lower temperatures
Riesling is most planted
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Horse Heaven Hills AVA
25% of Washington production
Mainly black grapes
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah
- also Chardonnay, Riesling
South-facing slopes
- Ripe fruit (both white and red) and full body
Strong winds
- pretection from frost, extending growing season, reduction of disease pressure
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Wahluke Slope AVA
Some of driest and warmest conditions in Washington
Gentle south facing slope
- maximize sun exposure
- slopes, along with proximity to river, facilitate airflow
Mainly red grapes
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah
Sandy free-draining soils
- almost entirely dependent on irrigation
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Walla Walla Valley AVA (Washington)
East is cooler and wetter
- Blue Mountain foothills
- altitudes up to 600m
West is warmer and drier
Topography doesn't allow cold air to drain
- risk of spring and autumn frost is greater
Wide range of varieties can ripen
- Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah,
- Italian, Spanish, Rhone varieties
- Chardonnay
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Puget Sound AVA
West of Cascade Mountain range
- cooler, wetter
- still warm and dry in summer, with mild wet winters
Dominated by hybrids, e.g. Muller-Thurgau
Some Pinot Noir and Riesling
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Wine business in Washington state
Evolved from mostly producing Riesling into producing more Bordeaux and Rhone varieties.
Production has grown rapidly in recent decades
- dominated by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates
Mostly sold in-state
- the most iconic wines are distributed nationwide
- minimal exports
Cellar doors are important route to market
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New York State general history
1957 Dr Konstantin Frank succeeded in over-wintering of Chardonnay and Riesling - Vinifera Wine Cellars
Farm Winery Act in 1976 allowed growers to open wineries and sell directly to public.
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AVAs of New York state
Finger Lakes AVA
Hudson River Region AVA
Long Island AVA
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Finger Lakes AVA
Growing environment
Below lake Ontario
One of coldest USA AVAs
- cool continental climate
- warm summers
Fertile soils and sufficient rainfall
- low densities of large vines
- Scott-Henry to split canopy, increase airflow, and reduce shading
Winter freeze is an issue
- snow helps to insulate
- hilling up around the graft
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Finger Lakes AVA
varieties
Initially cold-hardy hybrids
- Concord, Vidal
Riesling fermented in steel, few hours of skin contact or lees optional
- also make late-harvest and botrytised styles
Cabernet Franc
- mid-ripening and winter hardy
- less new oak than in the past
- French or Hungarian oak (more subtle)
Chardonnay (also sparkling), Pinot Noir
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Effect of lakes in Finger Lakes AVA
Lakes
- very deep lakes (moderate temperature)
- slopes toward lakes help cold air descend toward water (warm air above lake raises)
- lake-effect snow (protection of vines in winter)
- warming influence in autumn
- cool air delays bud burst in spring
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Long Island AVA
Climate
Viticulture
2 peninsulas (and sub-AVAs)
- North Fork
- Hamptons
North Fork is slightly warmer and more protected from weather events.
Atlantic Ocean, Peconic Bay, and Long Island Sound
- Maritime climate with long growing season because water releases heat into autumn
High humidity = risk of fungal diseases
- wind near coasts helps to mitigate
Trained and trellised with VSP
- not as vigorous as Finger Lakes
- low nutrient soils and good drainage
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Long Island AVA
Wine varieties
Winemaking
Wine business
Merlot is the signature variety
- also Bordeaux varieties, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
Most red wine matured in oak
- French, Hungarian, American
- proportion of new oak is common
Chardonnay is made in both oaked and unoaked styles
- malo and lees aging are common
- other whites are mostly fruity and unoaked
Producer: Wolffer Estate
Cellar door is very important
- proximity to Manhattan and the Hamptons
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Hudson River Region AVA
Very small area planted
Continental climate
- spring frost can be problem and winter freeze is avoided by hilling up
Hybrids (e.g. Vidal)
Cool-climate vinifera (e.g. Riesling, Cab Franc)
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Wine business in New York State
Before the Farm Winery Act in 1976, market was dominated by large companies producing inexpensive wine.
Vast majority is sold in state
- Cellar door sales.
New York City has been slow to embrace local wines
