Wine Basics - Brief Article

Flower & Garden Magazine, July, 2001 by Jonathan Prebich

History in a Bottle

In California, the Sonoma Valley is known for some of the best wines in the world, as over 150 wineries are located there. But it is interesting to note that only 12% of all California wines come from the famous `Napa' and `Sonoma' regions. The most popular wines, the `jug' wines, account for 54% and are produced in the San Joaquin Valley or the Central Coast.

The East Coast has become quite popular with many wineries sprouting up over the last few years. New York is the epicenter for East Coast winemaking, as it is the second largest wine-producing state in the US. There are over 120 wineries in New York State alone, with the Finger Lakes, Hudson Valley and Long Island regions being the most prominent. Obviously the weather is the biggest factor among grape-growers in New York, with Vitis labrusca being the grape of choice, since it is decidedly very hardy and can withstand cold winters.

But what about other parts of the world? France and Italy are probably the most well known, but how about Australia, Spain and South America?

Australia has been producing wine since 1788 with Lindemans and Penfolds being the most recognizable names among wine savvy Americans. Australia produces many types of red wine, but Shiraz is the most visible and widely planted red grape.

Spain dedicates 4.5 million acres of land to vines and is the third largest wine producing region behind France and Italy. Spain is rich in winemaking heritage, as many types of wines are produced, including reds, whites and fortified wines.

The wines of South America include Chile and Argentina. The first grapes were planted in Chile in 1551, and wine was produced shortly thereafter in 1555. Close to half of all the grapes planted are Cabernet Sauvignon, but white and different red varieties are also accounted for.

Argentina, too, began planting grapes in the 1500s and is the fifth largest wine producer in the world. Red grape varieties dominate the region, but Malbec is the most widely planted and Argentina's finest grape varietal. The future is bright for both Chile and Argentina, as wine producers continue to expand and grow with the emerging wine culture.

* SOME BOTTLES AND THEIR PRICES:

New York State-1998 Dr. Konstantin Frank Chardonnay, $14.36

Australia-1997 Penfolds Shiraz, Bin 128 Coonawara, $24.48

Argentina-1997 Trapiche Malbec, Oak Cask, Mendoza, $8.07

Chile-1997 Concha Y Toro Merlot, Marques De Casa Concha, Rapel Valley, $12.15

These are just a few of my favorites, all available through your local wine merchant. Try these and others to expand your palette.

Until next time, take the time, and enjoy the wine.....