The Everyday Guide to Wines of California

What makes California unique among other wine-making regions of the world? What’s the best way to read a California wine label? What are some general guidelines for opening a wine bottle and tasting in a winery? Find out the answers to these and other questions in this lecture that prepares you for the rest of your journey through the world of California wines.

This lecture focuses on two white grape varieties—Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay—that are extremely popular and easy to find. Alongside Ms. Simonetti-Bryan, sample some of California’s best, including a Fumé Blanc by Robert Mondavi and Chardonnays from Sonoma and Napa. Also, get tips on some delicious food-pairing suggestions, and more.

Explore some of California’s most fragrant and exciting new white wine varieties, which yield a variety of aromas and tastes reminiscent of flowers and fruits: a Pinot Gris, a Viognier, and an unoaked Sauvignon Blanc. Then, go beyond tradition (and into somewhat controversial territory) and see how California growers are experimenting with organic wine.

Turn now to California’s sparkling wines and one of its most popular reds: Pinot Noir. These wines are some of the most versatile food-pairing wines that the state has to offer. Compare and contrast how bubbly wines taste when made using traditional and Charmat methods. Then, explore the tastes, aromas, and finishes of a variety of Pinot Noirs from around California.

Learn everything you need to know about Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, which make up approximately 42% of the red grape variety plantings in California. How does a Cabernet Sauvignon stand up to a Bordeaux? What should you look for in a Cab/Merlot blend? How does California’s terroir affect its Cabs and Merlots? How do you age a Cabernet?

Conclude your tour of California wines with a look at some of its most interesting reds: a red Zinfandel, a Syrah, a Rhone Valley Syrah, a Petite Sirah, and a Grenache. Also, learn more about the recent trend in California winemaking for creating unique red blends from different grape varieties (you’ll also get suggestions for making your own personal blends).