Napa Valley Grape History is older than the California Gold Rush. Back then, there was an overabundance of wild grapes. In 1839 George Yount was one of the first to take advantage of this rich environment and started planting grapes. It didn’t take long for others to join the bandwagon.
Both Hamilton Crabb and John Patchett actually enter the Vitis Vinifera grapevine to the Napa area. This vine is native to The Mediterranean area. This is how crossbreeding started.
Napa Valley Grape History – Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon, now that is a name I find hard to roll off the tongue. If I say it in my head sounds great, I mess it up the minute I open my mouth. But I love the expression it leaves on my palate. The Cabernet Sauvignon is the king of red grapes. Napa Valley achieves a variety of expressions. Obviously, depending on its vineyard and process used.
Oak aging! Meaning stored in oak barrels. This process actually draws out the Tannins in the wood, giving it a stronger flavor. (It takes at least two years to produce a Cabernet Sauvignon premium blend). Sometimes oak flavors are added to the wines. This is in addition to barreling. But after a few years, the wood barrels lose their oakiness and strong tannins. They become what is know as “natural.” Thus, changing the outcome of the wine. Furthermore, other notable flavors from the Cabernet Sauvignon are blackcurrant, black cherry, and black olive notes.
In its youth, Cabernet Sauvignon can be mighty. Some consider it to be dense on the palate as well. But unlike me, it ages gracefully. Decanting can bring out more of its potential. Showing us a variety of flavors.
Cabernet Sauvignon Pairing
Now a young Cabernet Sauvignon is best paired with wild game. Like Venison and Rabbit. It also goes great with Lamb. The old Cabs I find complement my Friday night Prime Rib perfectly. When having a few friends over, it goes superbly with an aged cheese plater.
Napa Valley Grape History – Chardonnay
Did you know Chardonnay is second in popularity of grapes? Especially in the Napa Valley region. In fact, Chardonnay is The Queen of whites. Raised in a cool climate and calcium-riched soil. This is to be expected. This also allows the grapes to ripen at a slow, steady pace to perfection. Meanwhile, they have the most complexity. Kind of like a woman. With flavors and aromas that will keep you reeling. As a result, they can be rich and full of life. Some have a fresh, crisp style of their own. In comparison, other styles are round and buttery on the palate.
The process of Chardonnay is different from Cabernet Sauvignon Oak barreling. Chardonnay prefers and naked all-natural stainless steel and never touched by oak fermenting tanks. Thus giving the Chardonnay a fresh and fruity variety of flavor. But this is a bit misleading. Why? Because oak barrels actually lose the oakiness after a few uses. Some vineyards still use aged oak barrels along with other techniques to produce the desired complexity. Chardonnay is the winemaker’s grape.
Chardonnay Pairing
As a result of the Complexity and styles of the Chardonnay pair well with a variety of dishes, I personally love to pair it with a Grilled Salmon Steak of a bed of Rice Peilof and a side of Asparagus. Just saying.
Napa Valley Grape History – Merlot
Merlot, now this is top of the list for reds. In Napa, Marlot has been around since the 1970″s. Without a doubt has taken the market by storm, especially in California. It is more delicate than its robust counterpart, the Cabernet Sauvignon.
The general process varies from vineyard to vineyard. Some use a clod-soaking method. Meanwhile, others use a delestage method. These methods extract the color and flavors from the skin of the grape. If left too long, the taste will be bitter. Next is the fermentation process. Finally, the wine is aged to the winemaker’s desired outcome.
Napa Valley Grape History – Merlot Pairing
While reds have never been my favorite, I have come to appreciate the smooth earthiness of a fine Merlot. The Ricord Merlot is my absolute favorite. I was surprised at how smooth it is and the incredible taste after a bite of my favorite chocolate from Abdallah Candies. Don’t get me wrong; it pairs well with a variety of foods. I can’t get past the chocolate. Wine and chocolate! How can you go wrong?
Napa Valley Grape History
Obviously, many other wines come out of Napa Valley. Like the Petite Sirah, Sauvignon Blanc, and let’s not forget the Syrah. All with their own unique aromas and flavors. I have found a great place to get Fine Napa Valley wines. If you love your wine? Would you like it delivered directly to your door? Join Here.
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