What’s the most talked about within Napa Valley?
While Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are the most commonly planted however, it is the Napa Valley holds many surprises to wine enthusiasts seeking varieties that are that aren’t on the radar. For example, from Albarino to Zinfandel More than three dozen distinct grape varieties of wine thrive within Napa Valley. Napa Valley.
Below is a brief description of the most planted grape varieties that are grown in Napa Valley.
Are you a Variety, or a Varietal?
The term “varieties” can refer to wine itself (Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay), or to the type or style of wine, such as white, red, sparkling, for instance.
Varietal can be used to describe the wine that is that is made from one grape variety.
A glass of Chardonnay could be considered a varietal winethat is made by Chardonnay varieties of grapes.
Cabernet Sauvignon
The Cabernet Sauvignon is the acknowledged the king of red wines within Napa Valley, accounting for 40 percent of our total production, and five percent of the total crop value. The vine is grown across Napa Valley and achieves a different expression based on the location of its vineyard. The flavors showcase a range of black fruit, such as cherry, currant and plum. It can also exhibit hints of spice due to the oak’s aging.
Food pairing: When they’re young they’re best paired with red meat dishes that are robust like braised game and lamb, whereas older Cabs are excellent accompaniments to simple roasts and aged cheeses and steaks.
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Chardonnay
Chardonnay is the second-most grown grape variety of Napa Valley, and grows with great success in the soils that are rich in calcium and cool climate of Los Carneros AVA in which it has the potential to mature in a slow manner. Lees stirring, barrel fermentation and malolactic ferment are the primary methods employed by wineries to create rich aromas and flavors in this wine. This is why Napa Valley Chardonnay can range in its style, from refreshing bright and crisp, to creamy, round and rich.
Food pairing: This vast selection of flavors can go with many different food items, from simple cooked seafood to the majority of chicken and pork dishes.
Merlot
Merlot has been a staple within the Napa Valley since the early 1970s. Its beautiful scents of ripe cherries, deep earthiness, soft texture and a silky smooth finish have enticed the new generation of wine drinkers who enjoy red wine. With the wide variety of winemaking sites and vineyards methods within Napa Valley, Merlot has demonstrated its ability to produce wines that are both full-bodied and lighter. well-textured wines.
The food pairing Pair Merlot with food similar to like you would the Cabernet Sauvignon but its lighter weight and tannins makes it an adaptable companion to a variety of food items.
Pinot Noir
Ethereal, earthy scents and the silky feel that are characteristic of Pinot Noir have attracted wine lovers for long periods of time. Coastal California possesses several areas which produce excellent Pinot Noir, and Napa Valley’s Los Carneros was one of the first regions to realize the potential of this wine. One of the main characteristics in the Pinot Noir is its vibrant acidity that makes it a great partner for food.
A food-related pairing Pinot Noir is one of the rare red wines that work perfectly to seafood (think salmon, tuna , and bouillabaisse) as well as a broad selection of cheeses, and is ideal with game birds and lamb chops grilled.
Sauvignon Blanc
The intense taste characteristic in Sauvignon Blanc grabs your attention. The grassy, herbaceous notes and vibrant acidity are among the best characteristics of this grape and it’s capable of displaying a wide range of fruit characteristics. The majority of Sauvignon Blanc is fermented in neutral vessels, like concrete eggs and stainless steel so that its distinctive characteristic characteristics to show through.
Food pairing: Bright and fresh and ideal for warmer temperatures, Sauvignon Blanc goes great with light summer meals and salads , and it is delicious with goat cheese and shellfish.
Zinfandel
A remarkably versatile variety of grape, Zinfandel was the mainstay of the winemaking industry in the 19th century of California. The old vines of Napa Valley are capable of producing heady, rich jammy wines that have notes of black pepper and spice. Zinfandel can also be produced in lighter, more palatable versions and is frequently used as the basis for vino fortified wine.
Pairing with food: The intense and spicy flavor of Zinfandel makes it the perfect companion to barbeque.