Everyone is aware of Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Napa wine prices. Lots of other regions qualify as expensive, like right here in Sonoma County. Good luck finding a Russian River Pinot for under $50 anymore. Heck, Willamette Oregon Pinot isn't exactly cheap.
Where can you look for good American wines at more reasonable prices?
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| Old vines in Lodi |
Lodi
Lodi is unique in that it's in the hot interior of the state, but gets those cooling summer delta breezes (late afternoon winds off the SF Bay). This cooldown allows the wine grapes to retain natural acidity, something required for premium wines. These are big, bold wines, often Zinfandel, and this style of Zin is in vogue.
Sierra Foothills
It started with Amador County long ago, with El Dorado and a couple others getting into the business. Everything about the foothills wineries is less expensive, whether it's wine prices, tasting fees, or the cost of visiting. There is some mighty fine Zinfandel and Barbera in Amador. It's more Cabernet and Syrah in El Dorado.
Mendocino County
Mendo has the cooler Anderson Valley, the home of some great white wines and Pinot Noir. It also has much warmer growing regions where you'll find Cabernet, Zinfandel, Syrah, and others, all with reasonable pricing.
An aside: You'll find the forgotten grape, Petite Sirah, to be common in these regions listed above.
Outside of California, try Columbia Valley, Washington (known for Cab), Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan (known for Riesling), Finger Lakes, NY (Riesling). There are many others, some good and, honestly, some mediocre. Decide for yourself.
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| The beautiful, and somewhat remote, Anderson Valley in Mendocino County |
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