California

California is situated on the west coast of the United States, and represents approximately 90% of the country's production. It is famed as a producer of high quality wines from excellent terroir, high levels of sunshine ensuring full ripeness and ocean breezes that temper the climate. Red wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir are much vaunted, while other varieties capable of producing a high quality include Zinfandel and Merlot. Of the white wines, those of the highest quality are made from Chardonnay, while Sauvignon Blanc is also produced in smaller quantities.