United States
Did you know that grapes are grown in all fifty states of America?
America is actually the fifth-largest wine producer in the world. First, second, and third place are held by France, Italy, and Spain, respectively. Almost 90% of all wines from the United States come from California, and of all wines exported, as much as 99% originate from California. It is therefore very difficult to find American wine in Europe that does not come from California.
The grapevine was introduced by Spanish colonists in the 16th century. For a long time, winemaking was not of particularly high quality. It was not until the end of Prohibition in 1933 that vineyards were replanted, this time with French varietals. There was also a focus on all kinds of new winemaking techniques, including aging in oak barrels, which led to the creation of the famous full-bodied, oak-aged, vanilla-rich Chardonnay from California.
The most important grape varieties in America are Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel, also known as Primitivo in Italy. You will also find Pinot Noir, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Syrah. Although we are primarily familiar with Chardonnay from California, about 60% of all plantings consist of red grapes.
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