One of the
world's largest producers of quality wines, the U.S.
grows most of its grapes along its West Coast, although a
minority of good wines do come from the East and some Central
states. In fact, 46 out of the country's 50 states produce
wine.
wineFACT
The most planted grape variety in California -- and the
most consumed wine in America -- is Zinfandel. A true all-American,
the Zinfandel grape is currently grown only in California,
and is used to produce robust red wine and highly popular
blush wines.
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California is the country's most prolific and best-known wine area,
producing more than 90 per cent of the country's wine. Its Napa Valley
uses about 80 per cent of its workable land to grow grapes, and produces
excellent wines, many competitive with French varieties. Napa wines are
full-bodied and flavorful.
The Pacific Northwest also produces some very fine wines. The region's
cooler climate allows its growers to more readily create European-style
wines.
Washington State also has an expanding wine industry, and while known
mainly for its whites, some quality Merlots and Cabernets are produced
by its vineyards as well.
Idaho's high altitude produces sweet
grapes that result in light, fruity reds that are particularly popular
close to home.
Most high quality American wines are varietals -- wines made almost
or entirely from the single grape variety named on the bottle's label.
Because of the U.S. wine industry's popularity and exposure internationally,
prices for American wines are on the rise. Good values can still be found,
however, typically in good wines made from lesser-known grape varieties,
or in well-made, mass-produced wines from large wineries. Lesser-known
California regions such as San Luis Obispo and the Sierra Foothills also
offer good value.
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