How Southern Califonia Wines Compete With Fine Wines All Over The World : wine, wines, wine gifts...

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Wine is a beverage that is produced throughout the world. Each region may claim to be the best, but the wines produced in California can compete with all of them. California is responsible for 90 percent of the country's wine making. They have mainly been produced in the Northern regions but the relatively new comers from the Southern region have taken hold.

The southern region of California produces nearly 500 million gallons and ships them all over the world. The coastal town of Santa Barbara has an environment that grapes thrive in. It contains 21000 acres of vineyards and brings in $100 million to the region. Although contained in one region of the state, it has several different climates. The Pala Mesa Mountain region has weather that allows sunny days and cool evenings that the grapes grow well in. Conversely, the Cape Horn region enjoys hot weather, with the mercury often passing 100 degrees.

Thanks to this constant warmth in temperature, wine growing is not limited by adverse weather conditions. The wineries are able to operate throughout the year on a specific schedule. The spring is used to plant the new crop, while the summer is used to tend it. In the fall, the grapes are harvested and in the winter the fields are weeded and made ready for the spring. There are a variety of grapes grown in this region, including Syrah, Pino Blanc, Chardonnay and other French varieties.

The Temecula wine country is located south of Los Angeles. It contains 3000 acres of vineyards and is famous for wine tasting day trips. It sits approximately 1400 feet above sea level and enjoys a warm, dry climate. 14 of the wineries that are located there have won awards for the quality and taste of their wine. The wines of this region are affordable which lends to their popularity. They are not only known for their European grapes, but are also famous for producing delicious varietals from the Mediterranean. These include Violgnier and Pinot Gris. Despite the fact that they are relatively new wineries, that have made a name for themselves that is respected by many wine lovers.

Shadow Mountain wineries are located 4400 feet above sea level. Their specialty is the ever popular Cabernet Sauvignon.

Southern California produces just about every kind of wine, enough to please all of the wine lovers the region attracts. Many people come to the region not just for the beautiful scenery or the warm weather, but to take part in wine tasting from the many vineyards there. They enjoy a friendly rivalry with the Napa Valley and Sonoma vineyards that are located in Northern California, and have proven themselves to be equal in both taste and quality.

Also by Gregg Hall:
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