California Wine

California's warm, sun-drenched vineyards have made it the driving force behind American wine, producing everything from rich, structured Cabernet Sauvignon to barrel-aged Chardonnay and old-vine Zinfandel. Regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma County have built international reputations for quality, while the state's sheer size means styles vary considerably depending on how close a vineyard sits to the cooling influence of the Pacific. It's a reliable choice if you want something generous and fruit-forward without straying into the more restrained styles typical of European regions. For the wider national picture, United States Wine covers everything else on offer, and Imported Wines is worth a look if you'd rather browse internationally more broadly.