3:00 AM
09/01/08 - Wine Storage
A Featured Wine Storage Article
Carneros Wineries And Wines
Although Carneros Wineries are located in both southern Napa and Sonoma Counties, the region has always had its own unique identity. Being a huge Pinot Noir fan, I really enjoy exploring new, interesting wines from this region.
Carneros is an example of an AVA that has a more uniform terroir than most. Whereas the borders of some AVAs have been extended beyond their natural climactic boundaries because of politics and influence, Carneros resisted this all too common tendency.
History
During the Spanish era of California, the region was a natural place for settlement in the North Bay due to its proximity to San Francisco, and accessibility by water routes. When General Vallejo secularized the Spanish Missions in 1834, he divided the region amongst several of his cronies. The area was initially developed to produce subsistence crops and livestock.
The first vineyards were planted in the 1830s, and Carneros Wineries flourished for many decades until phylloxera devastated the region's grapes along with most vineyards throughout California.
Prohibition appeared to be the last nail in the coffin for Carneros Wineries. After this unfortunate law's repeal, Andre Tchelistcheff and Louis M. Martini took an interest in the region's unique climate. Investment in Carneros Wineries was slow until the 1970s when it began to surge with the rest of the Napa Valley.
Terroir
Regular fog derived from the San Pablo Bay and Napa River has a cooling effect on the region. Wind is a constant factor, and it blows relatively unobstructed throughout most of the AVA.
Additionally, rainfall is relatively scarce, causing most Carneros Wineries and growers to irrigate their crops. The lack of abundant fresh water as well as the encroachment of sea water into some parts of the ground inhibit rampant vineyard expansion.
As one moves north from the San Pablo Bay, rolling hills begin to replace the extremely flat terrain in the south. There are a few hills that rise to 1000 feet, but they do little to shield the wind and fog. Because of Carneros' consistant climate, certain varietals grow in a very methodical manner.
A multitude of fossilized sea life exists in the soil, and is reminiscent of when the San Pablo Bay covered much of the region. The soil has relatively low fertility, giving grape vines only enough nourishment to focus on scarce, concentrated fruit. The soils of Carneros are generally made of relatively compact clay and are quite shallow.
Varietals, Wines, and Wineries
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are quite compatible with the terroir of Carneros, and the AVA produces some great examples of these two varietals. About 80% of the grapes produced here are either Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. Carneros Wineries also produce some excellent sparkling wines. Some parts of the region have also had a degree of success producing Merlot and Syrah in the northern, slightly warmer parts of the AVA.
Carneros is an example of an AVA that has a more uniform terroir than most. Whereas the borders of some AVAs have been extended beyond their natural climactic boundaries because of politics and influence, Carneros resisted this all too common tendency.
History
During the Spanish era of California, the region was a natural place for settlement in the North Bay due to its proximity to San Francisco, and accessibility by water routes. When General Vallejo secularized the Spanish Missions in 1834, he divided the region amongst several of his cronies. The area was initially developed to produce subsistence crops and livestock.
The first vineyards were planted in the 1830s, and Carneros Wineries flourished for many decades until phylloxera devastated the region's grapes along with most vineyards throughout California.
Prohibition appeared to be the last nail in the coffin for Carneros Wineries. After this unfortunate law's repeal, Andre Tchelistcheff and Louis M. Martini took an interest in the region's unique climate. Investment in Carneros Wineries was slow until the 1970s when it began to surge with the rest of the Napa Valley.
Terroir
Regular fog derived from the San Pablo Bay and Napa River has a cooling effect on the region. Wind is a constant factor, and it blows relatively unobstructed throughout most of the AVA.
Additionally, rainfall is relatively scarce, causing most Carneros Wineries and growers to irrigate their crops. The lack of abundant fresh water as well as the encroachment of sea water into some parts of the ground inhibit rampant vineyard expansion.
As one moves north from the San Pablo Bay, rolling hills begin to replace the extremely flat terrain in the south. There are a few hills that rise to 1000 feet, but they do little to shield the wind and fog. Because of Carneros' consistant climate, certain varietals grow in a very methodical manner.
A multitude of fossilized sea life exists in the soil, and is reminiscent of when the San Pablo Bay covered much of the region. The soil has relatively low fertility, giving grape vines only enough nourishment to focus on scarce, concentrated fruit. The soils of Carneros are generally made of relatively compact clay and are quite shallow.
Varietals, Wines, and Wineries
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are quite compatible with the terroir of Carneros, and the AVA produces some great examples of these two varietals. About 80% of the grapes produced here are either Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. Carneros Wineries also produce some excellent sparkling wines. Some parts of the region have also had a degree of success producing Merlot and Syrah in the northern, slightly warmer parts of the AVA.
Thoughts about Wine Storage
Carneros Wineries And Wines
Although Carneros Wineries are located in both southern Napa and Sonoma Counties, the region has always had its own unique identity. Being a huge Pino...
Click Here to Read More About Wine ...
Featured Wine Storage Items
The FTD We Fondly Remember Arrangement - Standard
This colorful bouquet conveys your deep sympathies. Traditionally arranged in a basket are red roses, pink gladiolus, white spider chrysanthemums, purple iris and more. Appropriate to send to a home or to a funeral. S5-3498S
Price: 129.99 USD
Headlines on Wine Storage
Bordeaux 1.2 Press Release
Sun, 06 Jul 2008 00:32:10 PDT
THE BORDEAUX GROUP ANNOUNCES BORDEAUX FOR LINUX 1.2 WHICH ADDS SUPPORT FOR OFFICE 2007 IMPROVES ON WINE 1.0
France: Reclassification of Certain Wines Challenged
Sat, 05 Jul 2008 13:05:36 PDT
The world of St.-Émilion wine was thrown into turmoil when a local court ruled that the latest reclassification of these Bordeaux wines, made in 2006, was not impartial and should be annulled.
A Bordeaux Blog
Fri, 27 Jun 2008 09:15:00 PDT
The best Blog on Bordeaux Wine I can find anywhere, a true bookmark for anyone into French wines. Gavin Quinney; A blend of vinegrower, wine producer,wine critic and geek.
Wine Therapy at Hotel Les Source des Caudalie
Fri, 20 Jun 2008 06:37:54 PDT
What better way to fully experience the land of Bordeaux than with a wine massage? Four star luxury hotel Les Sources des Caudalie, nestled in the vineyards of Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte is home to the world’s first Vinothérapie Spa.
THE BORDEAUX GROUP FOUNDED, LAUNCHES BORDEAUX FOR LINUX
Mon, 16 Jun 2008 01:17:25 PDT
THE BORDEAUX GROUP FOUNDED, LAUNCHES BORDEAUX FOR LINUX FOR WINE 1.0The Bordeaux Group announces the release of Bordeaux for Linux 1.0 with support for Microsoft Office 2000, Adobe Photoshop CS, Adobe Photoshop CS2, Internet Explorer and the Steam gaming platform.
Pot Rack
Beer Basket
Wine Vinegar | Wine Vineyard
Carneros Wineries And Wines
Although Carneros Wineries are located in both southern Napa and Sonoma Counties, the region has always had its own unique identity. Being a huge Pinot Noir fan, I really enjoy exploring new, interesting wines from this region.
Carneros is an example of an AVA that has a more uniform terroir than most. Whereas the borders of some AVAs have been extended beyond their natural climactic boundaries because of politics and influence, Carneros resisted this all too common tendency.
History
During the Spanish era of California, the region was a natural place for settlement in the North Bay due to its proximity to San Francisco, and accessibility by water routes. When General Vallejo secularized the Spanish Missions in 1834, he divided the region amongst several of his cronies. The area was initially developed to produce subsistence crops and livestock.
The first vineyards were planted in the 1830s, and Carneros Wineries flourished for many decades until phylloxera devastated the region's grapes along with most vineyards throughout California.
Prohibition appeared to be the last nail in the coffin for Carneros Wineries. After this unfortunate law's repeal, Andre Tchelistcheff and Louis M. Martini took an interest in the region's unique climate. Investment in Carneros Wineries was slow until the 1970s when it began to surge with the rest of the Napa Valley.
Terroir
Regular fog derived from the San Pablo Bay and Napa River has a cooling effect on the region. Wind is a constant factor, and it blows relatively unobstructed throughout most of the AVA.
Additionally, rainfall is relatively scarce, causing most Carneros Wineries and growers to irrigate their crops. The lack of abundant fresh water as well as the encroachment of sea water into some parts of the ground inhibit rampant vineyard expansion.
As one moves north from the San Pablo Bay, rolling hills begin to replace the extremely flat terrain in the south. There are a few hills that rise to 1000 feet, but they do little to shield the wind and fog. Because of Carneros' consistant climate, certain varietals grow in a very methodical manner.
A multitude of fossilized sea life exists in the soil, and is reminiscent of when the San Pablo Bay covered much of the region. The soil has relatively low fertility, giving grape vines only enough nourishment to focus on scarce, concentrated fruit. The soils of Carneros are generally made of relatively compact clay and are quite shallow.
Varietals, Wines, and Wineries
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are quite compatible with the terroir of Carneros, and the AVA produces some great examples of these two varietals. About 80% of the grapes produced here are either Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. Carneros Wineries also produce some excellent sparkling wines. Some parts of the region have also had a degree of success producing Merlot and Syrah in the northern, slightly warmer parts of the AVA.
Carneros is an example of an AVA that has a more uniform terroir than most. Whereas the borders of some AVAs have been extended beyond their natural climactic boundaries because of politics and influence, Carneros resisted this all too common tendency.
History
During the Spanish era of California, the region was a natural place for settlement in the North Bay due to its proximity to San Francisco, and accessibility by water routes. When General Vallejo secularized the Spanish Missions in 1834, he divided the region amongst several of his cronies. The area was initially developed to produce subsistence crops and livestock.
The first vineyards were planted in the 1830s, and Carneros Wineries flourished for many decades until phylloxera devastated the region's grapes along with most vineyards throughout California.
Prohibition appeared to be the last nail in the coffin for Carneros Wineries. After this unfortunate law's repeal, Andre Tchelistcheff and Louis M. Martini took an interest in the region's unique climate. Investment in Carneros Wineries was slow until the 1970s when it began to surge with the rest of the Napa Valley.
Terroir
Regular fog derived from the San Pablo Bay and Napa River has a cooling effect on the region. Wind is a constant factor, and it blows relatively unobstructed throughout most of the AVA.
Additionally, rainfall is relatively scarce, causing most Carneros Wineries and growers to irrigate their crops. The lack of abundant fresh water as well as the encroachment of sea water into some parts of the ground inhibit rampant vineyard expansion.
As one moves north from the San Pablo Bay, rolling hills begin to replace the extremely flat terrain in the south. There are a few hills that rise to 1000 feet, but they do little to shield the wind and fog. Because of Carneros' consistant climate, certain varietals grow in a very methodical manner.
A multitude of fossilized sea life exists in the soil, and is reminiscent of when the San Pablo Bay covered much of the region. The soil has relatively low fertility, giving grape vines only enough nourishment to focus on scarce, concentrated fruit. The soils of Carneros are generally made of relatively compact clay and are quite shallow.
Varietals, Wines, and Wineries
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are quite compatible with the terroir of Carneros, and the AVA produces some great examples of these two varietals. About 80% of the grapes produced here are either Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. Carneros Wineries also produce some excellent sparkling wines. Some parts of the region have also had a degree of success producing Merlot and Syrah in the northern, slightly warmer parts of the AVA.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Benjamin Bicais is the webmaster of http://www.california-wine-tours-and-accessories. This site contains original articles about California Wine Regions, and general wine knowledge.
Thoughts about Wine Storage
Carneros Wineries And Wines
Although Carneros Wineries are located in both southern Napa and Sonoma Counties, the region has always had its own unique identity. Being a huge Pino...
Click Here to Read More About Wine ...
Featured Wine Storage Items
The FTD We Fondly Remember Arrangement - Standard
This colorful bouquet conveys your deep sympathies. Traditionally arranged in a basket are red roses, pink gladiolus, white spider chrysanthemums, purple iris and more. Appropriate to send to a home or to a funeral. S5-3498S
Price: 129.99 USD
Headlines on Wine Storage
Bordeaux 1.2 Press Release
Sun, 06 Jul 2008 00:32:10 PDT
THE BORDEAUX GROUP ANNOUNCES BORDEAUX FOR LINUX 1.2 WHICH ADDS SUPPORT FOR OFFICE 2007 IMPROVES ON WINE 1.0
France: Reclassification of Certain Wines Challenged
Sat, 05 Jul 2008 13:05:36 PDT
The world of St.-Émilion wine was thrown into turmoil when a local court ruled that the latest reclassification of these Bordeaux wines, made in 2006, was not impartial and should be annulled.
A Bordeaux Blog
Fri, 27 Jun 2008 09:15:00 PDT
The best Blog on Bordeaux Wine I can find anywhere, a true bookmark for anyone into French wines. Gavin Quinney; A blend of vinegrower, wine producer,wine critic and geek.
Wine Therapy at Hotel Les Source des Caudalie
Fri, 20 Jun 2008 06:37:54 PDT
What better way to fully experience the land of Bordeaux than with a wine massage? Four star luxury hotel Les Sources des Caudalie, nestled in the vineyards of Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte is home to the world’s first Vinothérapie Spa.
THE BORDEAUX GROUP FOUNDED, LAUNCHES BORDEAUX FOR LINUX
Mon, 16 Jun 2008 01:17:25 PDT
THE BORDEAUX GROUP FOUNDED, LAUNCHES BORDEAUX FOR LINUX FOR WINE 1.0The Bordeaux Group announces the release of Bordeaux for Linux 1.0 with support for Microsoft Office 2000, Adobe Photoshop CS, Adobe Photoshop CS2, Internet Explorer and the Steam gaming platform.
Pot Rack
Beer Basket
Wine Vinegar | Wine Vineyard
Labels: Sweet Sherries | Sweet Wine
