When looking at the California wine racks in the local wine shop, you will likely notice that they are dominated by Napa Valley wines. Napa has an established wine industry and is a major tourist destination for wine lovers from all over the country. Napa’s unique position between ocean and mountains and its rich flinty soil make it perfect for growing robust rich wine grapes.

However, there is another wine region in California that has a growing wine industry and produces world-class wines that frequently win international awards. While not as well known outside of California as Napa, the Temecula Valley’s wineries and vineyards produce some of the finest wines in the country. Temecula is equidistant between Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange County in Southern California. The area’s microclimate is similar to Napa and its soil is the perfect medium for grape vines to put down roots in.

Temecula produces many different types of wine grapes, some of European descent and some decidedly more North American. Here are some of the most popular grapes grown in the region:

Pinot Noir is a popular red grape that makes one of the most-purchased wines in the United States. It is one of the oldest grape varieties, having been grown by the Romans as far back as the first century A.D. Pinot Noir is called the “heartbreak grape” by many vintners as it is considered one of the most difficult grapes to coax into a bottle. It is difficult to grow, difficult to ferment, and difficult to age. California vintners have worked with Pinot Noir grapes for several decades and make fantastic wines. Pinot Noir is usually a lighter red wine often enjoyed with seafood and with grilled meats that do not overpower the delicate nature of the wine.

Zinfandel is considered a California red grape although it has been grown and harvested in several other countries under different names. When Zinfandel is fermented traditionally on its skins, it produces a rich complex red wine with lots of character. In California, however, it is often crushed and the skins are quickly removed. The Zinfandel grape pulp is white though the skins are red. This method makes the Zinfandel blush wine that is so popular in the state. It is one of the most widely-planted grape varieties in the Temecula Valley.

Cabernet Franc is a traditional French grape imported to California far more recently. It is one of the grape varieties present in most Bordeaux wines along with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. While Cabernet Franc is often considered a blending grape, some Temecula wineries are creating wines from the single varietal. Cabernet Franc is not as bold and robust as Cabernet Sauvignon, but it has more floral and grassy overtones that make for a great wine to serve with rich foods and red meats.

Muscat grapes are a white grape used for both wine and table. Muscat grapes have a unique aroma and are often made into sweet wines as they can take the sweetness without becoming cloying. Muscat is not yet a popular grape in California but is grown in the Temecula Valley offering an interesting counterpoint to the heavier and bolder California reds.

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