As the years go by, wines made in California have been steadily gaining popularity in the United States and all over the world. Botanically speaking, California has the ideal climate and soil type necessary to produce the grapes that make a great bottle of wine. Still, it can be difficult to choose the Best California Wine for you if you’re not familiar with the regional offerings and the wine scene in general. Below are some tips to help you choose a wine from this region that you’ll love.
Find the Right Growing Region
In California, wine is made in several distinct regions, with each region producing its own outstanding varieties of wine. To select the Best California Wine for you, think about the kinds of wine you’ve enjoyed in the past. According to Delish.com, South Central Coast wines are a great choice if you enjoy Pinot Noir or Syrah. If you love Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, look to the North Coast growing region. For an excellent glass of Grenache or Viognier, select a wine that’s produced in the North Central Coast of California.
Look to Your Plate
If you’re choosing a California wine to complement dinner, it’s a good idea to keep some basic wine and food pairings in mind. As a general rule of thumb, fruity white California wines like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc taste best when served with seafood, chicken or oil-based pasta dishes. If you’re serving beef, lamb or tomato-based pasta dishes, a hearty red wine like Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon will work best. A sweet, fragrant Zinfandel from Sonoma or the Alexander Valley tends to pair well with sweeter dishes or desserts.
Ask an Expert
If you’re confused about the wine-selecting process, it’s always a good idea to ask an expert for helpful advice. You can search online for reviews of a specific wine you’re considering, or browse helpful information at a site like Towne Cellars Wines and Liquors, Inc. There, you’ll find helpful information on a variety of California wines and can even order your chosen bottles online.
Selecting the right California wine can be confusing, but with a little knowledge the process can be fun. Keep the tips above in mind, and don’t hesitate to seek out expert advice or recommendations from a trusted wine retailer if you’re in doubt.
