/

Wines of United-States

    Your guide to United-States

    History of wines from United-States

    The history of wine in the United States dates back to the 16th century when European settlers, including Spanish and French Huguenots, began making wine using native grapes like muscadine. However, their efforts to plant *Vitis vinifera* varieties were initially unsuccessful due to pests like phylloxera and black rot. The first successful *Vitis vinifera* vineyards were planted in New Mexico in 1629 by Spanish missionaries.

    In the 18th century, Thomas Jefferson attempted to establish a winery in Virginia using *Vitis vinifera*, but he was unsuccessful. Meanwhile, wineries began to flourish on the East Coast and in the Midwest, using native American grapes and hybrids like Catawba and Concord. Brotherhood Winery in New York, established in 1839, remains the oldest continually operated winery in the U.S.

    California's wine industry took off in the 19th century with the establishment of the first vineyard by Spanish Catholic missionaries in 1769. The Mission grape was initially used, but later, vines from France were imported. By the mid-19th century, major wine production shifted to Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley, where wineries like Charles Krug and Beringer were founded. The 1976 Judgment of Paris marked a significant turning point for American wines, showcasing their quality against European standards.

    Terroir of United-States

    The terroir of wines in the United States is diverse and influenced by various climatic and soil conditions. Regions like Napa Valley, known for its warm climate, produce wines with high sugar levels and alcohol content, such as Cabernet Sauvignon with greater natural acidity. In contrast, cooler climates like those in Oregon and Washington State result in wines with lower sugar levels and higher acidity, making them well-suited for varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The unique terroir of each region is further defined by its soil composition, with areas like South Africa's granitic soils imparting distinct minerality to red wines.

    American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) like Napa Valley and Sonoma County showcase a range of terroirs within their boundaries. For example, sub-regions like St. Helena and Rutherford in Napa Valley have moderately warm climates, while areas like Los Carneros and Mount Veeder have cooler climates. These variations contribute to the complexity and uniqueness of American wines, making each AVA a distinct entity with its own sense of place. The terroir-driven wines from these regions often exhibit characteristics that are both regional and varietal, reflecting the interplay between climate, soil, and winemaking traditions.

    Top grapes in United-States

    Concord

    The Concord grape is a distinctive dark blue or purple grape variety that is predominantly grown in the United States. It is highly valued for its robust flavor and versatility in various culinary applications, including grape juice, jelly, and wine. Concord grapes are also known for their health benefits, as they are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. This grape variety was developed in Concord, Massachusetts in the 19th century and has since become a staple in American agriculture, thriving particularly well in the cooler climates of the northeastern United States.

    Cabernet Sauvignon

    Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most widely recognized grape varieties worldwide and is extensively cultivated across the United States, particularly in California's Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Known for producing full-bodied red wines with high tannins and acidity, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes contribute to complex flavor profiles featuring hints of black cherry, black currant, and cedar. The adaptability of this grape to various terroirs and its ability to age well make it a favorite among winemakers and wine enthusiasts alike. Its prominence in the American wine industry underscores its importance and widespread appeal.

    Chardonnay

    Chardonnay is arguably the most popular white grape variety in the United States, especially prominent in California's wine regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma County. This grape is known for its ability to be vinified in many different styles, from crisp and mineral-heavy to rich and buttery, depending on the winemaking techniques used. Chardonnay grapes are also used in the production of sparkling wines and champagnes. The versatility and broad appeal of Chardonnay have made it a cornerstone of the American wine industry, appealing to a wide range of palates and contributing significantly to the country's wine production.

    Wines to explore

    • Screaming Eagle
    • Beaulieu Vineyard
    • Inglenook
    • Joseph Phelps
    • Dalla Valle
    • Promontory
    • Vérité