California

California is the fourth largest producer of wine in the world. They have gained world recognition for many fine wines due to the wealth and variety of soil conditions and micro climates that exist. Premium wines are made up and down the whole length of California. The most important red varieties are: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Zinfandel. The most important white grape varieties are: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio, and Viognier. California hails 107 of the 188 AVAs established in the U.S.