Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon is “King.”  The valley itself in Northern California is not very big, but it is home to some of the most expensive and prestigious vineyards in California. Napa is separated from Sonoma and Central Coast by two sets mountain ranges: the Mayacamas Mountains to the west and the Vaca Mountains to the east. Being in a valley, this region can heat up pretty quickly. However, there are cooling influences like fog and ocean breezes from the San Pablo Bay that help to moderate the temperature within the valley. With more heat comes more concentrated, fuller-bodied wines, making this the perfect place for Cabernet Sauvignon. Other primary red grapes of focus are Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc. The principal white varieties to look for here are Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. You may also find Pinot Noir in the more southerly area of Los Carneros AVA where it can get cool enough to produce high-quality Pinot Noir. Featured AVA’s include Howell Mountain, Calistoga, St. Helena, Mount Veeder, Los Carneros, Stags Leap District, Oakville, and Rutherford.