Key regions
- Napa Valley
- Sonoma
- Santa Barbara
- Paso Robles
- Santa Cruz Mountains
- Lodi
- Mendocino
Producer guide
California wine guide.
California is one of the world's major wine-producing regions, with Napa Cabernet, Sonoma Pinot and Chardonnay, Central Coast Syrah, old-vine Zinfandel, and plenty of everyday value.
Grapes
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Noir
- Zinfandel
- Merlot
- Syrah
- Sauvignon Blanc
Buy first
- Napa or North Coast Cabernet
- Sonoma Chardonnay
- Russian River Pinot Noir
- old-vine Zinfandel
- Central Coast Syrah
Avoid if
Avoid if you only want low-alcohol, low-oak, very restrained old-world styles. California can do subtle, but the famous lane is often ripe and generous.
Producer starting points
Robert Mondavi Winery
California: Napa Cabernet structure, bright Fume Blanc/Sauvignon Blanc, and generous Chardonnay.
Read profileRidge Vineyards
California: Structured, savory, age-worthy California reds without chasing heavy sweetness.
Read profileStag's Leap Wine Cellars
California: Classic Napa Cabernet with dark fruit, structure, and polished tannin.
Read profileDrink responsibly
Got Any Grapes is for adults of legal drinking age. Do not drink underage, do not drink and drive, and follow all alcohol laws, health guidance, shipping rules, and serving rules that apply where you live.