Wild grapes always grew in abundance in California, but it was up to early settlers to plant and cultivate European varietals. In 1861, Charles Krug established Napa Valley's first commercial winery and the region's wine indsutry began to expand. It was temporarily halted by the arrival of phylloxera, a root disease that affected the wine industry worldwide, and by the enactment of Prohibition. In the 1950s, most California wineries were making bland and innocuous "Chablis." Today, however, the production of superior wines is well established throughout California. While Napa Valley is the most famous of California's wine regions, wineries run from the south near San Diego to in the foothills of the Sierra Mountains and Mendocino County in the far north.


Napa Valley

By far the most visited wine region in California, Napa Valley is home to more than 300 wineries. Robert Mondavi Winery practically invented the California wine industry. Sutter Home invented the White Zinfandel that still appeals to many. Beringer Vineyards and Clos du Val Winery are both well-known wineries that produce wines for the domestic market.

At the other end of the spectrum, Stag's Leap is home to some of the best Cabernet Sauvignons ever made. Other wineries for serious wine lovers include Chateau Montelenda, Robert Siskey, Rombauer, Sterling, and Silverado - among many, many others.


Sonoma County

The north part of Sonoma County includes a number of standout wineries, including Korbel champagne cellars, Silver Oak Cellers known for its Alexander Valley Cabernet, and the impressive Ferrari-Carrano Estate. The Cabernet and Merlot blends of Sonoma County rank with the world's best, and include such classics as Kendall Jackson Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. But in general, Sonoma County is known for its fruity, full-bodied Chardonnays - the ultimate white wine for a summer day.


Carneros Hills

Near the San Francisco Bay, Carneros is attracting attention for the quality of its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. Already, wineries are being established here that rank with the finest in Napa Valley. Among these are Acacia and Carneros Creek. In addition, both Taittinger and Freixenet are engaged in the production of sparkling wines here.


Russian River

Most of the grape-growing operations in this region are small, family-owned businesses. The area is known for its early-ripening Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, but grapes for sparkling wines also do well here. Geyser Peak Winery and Rodney Strong, among others, produce flavorful Chardonnays at a reasonable price.