American White Wine

California Chardonnay

California has enjoyed much success with the Chardonnay grape. Initially, wines produced from this variety were meant to mirror and sometimes compete with, their French counterparts. Now we see continuous evolution through experimentation with different clones, viticultural growth, zealous winemaking efforts, and a focus on terroir. California Chardonnay has found a way to define itself on its own terms and we are all better for it.

We offer many choices in this section of our list due to the continuing popularity of the varietal, but we believe that there is little or no overlap in the style, taste and flavor of these wines. Focusing on the stylistic differences from Mendicino down to the Central Coast , the winemakers that we feature are great innovators who have created their own powerful interpretations of the Chardonnay grape. Included in the roster are masterpieces by well-known and admired estates such as Peter Michael Winery. Also noteworthy, are the wines from a new generation of smaller producers including David Ramey and Ted Lemon.

In Chardonnay is one of the happiest of all combinations: the grower loves to grow it;

the winemaker loves to fashion it; and we all love to drink it.

Jancis Robinson, "Vines, Grapes & Wines"

California Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc never quite gets center stage, though it has significant following. It is always seemingly on the verge of being discovered. This may be because it does not have the size and texture of its California counterpart. In inexpert hands or grown in the wrong location, the variety can produce wines tasting skunky or vegetal. Under the right supervision the charm of Sauvignon Blanc comes through with lively citrus fruit, herbal tones and crisp acidity. Sauvignon Blanc can handle a wide range of flavors, from earthy vegetables, to lighter seafood dishes, to goat cheese.

Other California White Wines

This section incorporates a number of wines crafted California producers of unique varieties from several different European regions.

Here, one can find Viognier made by Josh Jensen at Calera. This Rhone varietal is characterized by its rich and oily texture and delicate stone fruit palate. One can also find stunning wines from Mat Garretson, as well as Randall Graham, both of whom focus on Rhone varieties. You will also find Chenin Blanc, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and other wines created by inspired and impassioned winemakers. All of which should prove to be fun, exciting and provocative.

Give me a glass that I may see, the splendid Sauvignon in thee, The Riesling grape within your eyes, Your Chardonnay and Pinot skies. Give me a glass that I may see, beyond sweet mediocrity…

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White Wines from the Pacific Northwest

Here we introduce perhaps unfamiliar wines. Oregon is fast taking hold as its international recognition grows, thanks to the fervent efforts of small producers including Eric Hamacher, Jay Sommers and the Deep Roots Coalition. You will find Pinot Gris Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling from the Willamette Valley . Another emerging wine-producing area is Washington State . Here there are fine wines made from Chardonnay Chenin Blanc, Semillon and Riesling. Woodward Canyon and Delille Cellars are but two of a pool of top quality wineries found in the Columbia Valley .

Wines from these regions have their own personalities that are very distinct from the wines of California and from each other. For the most part, they are created by small production houses, made by people who are not short on enthusiasm or passion for their grapes or for their craft.

CALIFORNIA CHARDONNAY

CALIFORNIA SAUVIGNON BLANC

OTHER CALIFORNIA WHITE WINES

OREGON WHITE WINE

WASHINGTON WHITE WINE