US Wine Regions: Napa Valley

In 1976, the wine world was forever changed when two Napa Valley wines – a Chateau Montelena Chardonnay and a Stags Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon – beat out their French counterparts in a blind tasting in France. The Judgment of Paris, as the competition is called, placed California, and particularly the Napa Valley, center stage.

Today, with more than 400 wineries and 45,000 acres planted to vines, Napa’s reputation continues to flourish. And the region’s trademark powerhouse grape-growing and fruit-forward style of winemaking has won the praise of – and even influenced – some of the world’s most well-respected Old World winemakers. The work that pioneers such as Robert Mondavi started nearly four decades ago continues as Napa leads the industry in tourism and world-class winemaking.

The legendary appellation is home to 14 sub-appellations and diverse microclimates, from sunny Oakville, home of award-winning Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, to Carneros, where delicate Pinot Noir grapes thrive. Still, farther north, in Calistoga, the morning fog and cool breezes are ideal conditions for the stately sparkling wines of Schramsberg Vineyards, which are regularly served in the White House. The Mediterranean climate, mustard-dotted hills and pioneering spirit of the Napa Valley draw millions of wine enthusiasts every year.