One of the great shames about American wine in Australia is how little of the good stuff gets over here. From perfumed and subtle Pinot Noirs and Rieslings in Washinton State, Oregon and the cooler areas of California to big robust Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons, the best wines from the United States are the equal of and sometimes the better of our local product.
California is the leader in the United States wine scene and has been for over 100 years, dominating wine production. Within California, there is a wide range of climates. For example, along the coast, the Pacific Ocean keeps Summer temperatures moderate, with some vineyard regions cooler than the fine wine zones of Europe. This is in direct contrast to the Central Valley, just East of the Coast, where the Summer climate is hot and unsuitable for making high-quality wines.
Starting down South, the coastal region of San Luis Obispo has shown great potential with Syrah, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other Rhône varietals such as Viognier. Around San Fransisco, the Santa Cruz mountains in particular have had great success with Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. North of San Fransisco is the United States' most famous district, and playground for the rich, the Napa Valley. Grape varieties that do well here include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel and oaky Chardonnay, although the Cabernet Sauvignons from near Rutherford are the standouts.
Further North is the cooler microclimates of Sonoma and Russian River Valley where Pinot Noir and streamlined Chardonnay take centre stage. But California is not the only state to make a great wine in the United States. With growing interest in more aromatic and elegant styles, winemakers have moved North in search of cooler climates. This has bought them to the Pacific North-West with Washington State and Oregon providing fertile ground. In particular regions such as the Columbia Valley, Yakima Valley, and Walla Walla produce fine Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay while Willamette Valley is hitting great heights with Pinot Noir.
