Normalcy in the Wine World: Regional Identification
I thought it best to quickly talk about normalcies before we fling ourselves into the world of deviance. And so, my question is…what is normal in the wine world? Let’s try to dive down and focus a bit more: what wines are considered “normal” or well-known? Maybe a look at particular well-known U.S. wine regions will help us come up with an answer.
When I think of well-known wine regions in the U.S., I think of Napa and Sonoma – each region boasting popular varietals:
Napa
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Chardonnay
- Merlot
- Zinfandel
Sonoma
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Chardonnay
- Merlot
- Pinot Noir
- Zinfandel
- Sauvignon Blanc
There are a few more varietals grown in each region, and a solid list of these can be found on the Napa Valley Vintners and Sonoma County Vintners websites respectively. In fact, many of these “alternate” varietals will be talked about and plenty of reviews will show up in the near future. But every so often, you’ll also see reviews or discussion about these “normal” varietals too. Why? Because sometimes you stumble across a bottle that doesn’t quite fall within the “normal” or well-known characteristics.
That being said, there is A LOT of ground to cover when it comes to many other wine regions in the U.S., let alone the world! And so, I’ll be making my way through some of what’s in my own “cellar”, but I want your feedback on not just wine regions in the U.S. that need to be covered, but specific wineries, winemakers, and varietals that need to be examined. So plug your suggestions below, and let’s get going!
