Wines from the United States

California, the beating heart of American wine

When we think of American wines, one name immediately springs to mind: California. This sunny state on the west coast accounts for over 80% of national production and is home to some of the world's most prestigious appellations.

Legendary valleys such as Napa Valley, Sonoma and Paso Robles produce powerful red wines and elegant whites that rival the best European wines.

Iconic grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel and Pinot Noir find ideal growing conditions here. Combining innovation with respect for the terroir, American viticulture appeals for its freedom of style and the consistent quality of its wines.

Modern and ambitious viticulture

American vineyards stretch across the west coast, from California to Oregon, via the state of Washington. Each region has developed its own identity, shaped by its climate, terrain and approach to viticulture.

California, with its 4,000 estates, remains the gold standard. The Mediterranean climate and varied soils allow for the production of a wide variety of wines: from the full-bodied reds of Napa Valley to the fresh whites of Sonoma.

Further north, Oregon has established itself as the kingdom of Pinot Noir, while Washington State produces excellent Merlots and Syrahs with remarkable balance.

This diversity makes the United States a wine destination in its own right, where each bottle reflects the authenticity of its terroir and the creativity of its winemaker.

The major American wine regions

Napa Valley: power and prestige

A true icon of Californian wine, Napa Valley is known for its dense and elegant reds.

Cabernet Sauvignon reigns supreme here: concentrated, velvety, rich in aromas of blackcurrant, vanilla and mocha. Iconic estates such as Opus One, Caymus, Silver Oak and Stag's Leap Wine Cellars embody the refinement and technical mastery of American winemaking.

Sonoma: freshness and authenticity

Located west of Napa, Sonoma offers a more understated and authentic style. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay express great aromatic purity, with natural acidity and a touch of salinity typical of the oceanic climate. Producers such as Kistler, Flowers and Ramey Wine Cellars are the best ambassadors for this region.

Paso Robles: warmth and innovation

South of San Francisco, the Paso Robles region has gained notoriety for its bold blends of Syrah, Grenache and Zinfandel. The warm climate and limestone soils favour rich, sunny wines with vibrant fruit.

Oregon and Washington: northern elegance

Oregon, with its Willamette Valley, is a paradise for Pinot Noir. The style is reminiscent of Burgundy, but with a wilder touch. The State of Washington, meanwhile, produces refined Merlots, intense Cabernet Sauvignons and generous Chardonnays.

The iconic grape varieties of American wines

Cabernet Sauvignon

The signature grape variety of Napa Valley, it produces powerful, complex wines that are suitable for ageing. Its aromas of black fruits, cedar and chocolate appeal to lovers of deep, balanced wines.

Chardonnay

Found in all regions, from Sonoma to Santa Barbara, Californian Chardonnay is distinguished by its richness and creaminess. Some styles, aged in oak barrels, offer a buttery, vanilla texture, while others, more taut, favour freshness and minerality.

Zinfandel

A true American icon, Zinfandel produces delicious reds with notes of blackberry, spice and plum. It is mainly found in the hills of Paso Robles and Lodi.

Pinot Noir and Merlot

Pinot Noir finds a refined and floral expression in the cool climates of Sonoma and Oregon, while Merlot from Washington State seduces with its balance and roundness.

Syrah

Grown in Southern California and Walla Walla (Washington), American Syrah is generous, intense and marked by notes of pepper and black fruit.

How to choose an American wine

Choosing a Californian wine depends above all on your tastes:

• For a full-bodied, concentrated red wine, opt for a Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley.

• For more finesse, a Pinot Noir from Sonoma or Oregon will work wonders.

• If you like round whites, a Chardonnay from Carneros is ideal.

• For fruity and warm wines, explore Zinfandel or Paso Robles blends.

American wines offer rare consistency: even entry-level vintages are excellent value for money, proof of the masterful expertise of American winemakers.

Buy American wines online

At Cavesa.ch, you will find a selection of American wines carefully chosen for their quality, authenticity and character.

Whether you are a fan of California Chardonnay, Napa Cabernet Sauvignon or Oregon Pinot Noir, you will find the right bottles for every occasion.

Each product page details the grape variety, region and tasting notes to guide you in your choice. Order easily online and have your wines delivered directly to your door, in optimal storage conditions.

And if you want to explore other wine horizons, discover:

• The refined wines of France

• The Mediterranean vintages of Italy

• The powerful wines of Portugal

• The elegant terroirs of Switzerland

• Or the expressive wines of Spain And for the curious, the Other Countries category will take you on a journey through vineyards around the world.

The art of American-style wine tasting

Wine culture in the United States is based on conviviality and discovery.

Serve your Chardonnay slightly chilled (10 to 12°C) and your Cabernet Sauvignon between 16 and 18°C.

American wines pair wonderfully with:

• Grilled meats (beef, lamb)

• Spicy dishes or barbecue

• Noble fish (tuna, salmon) for rich whites

• Mature or soft cheeses

Their balance of fruit, power and freshness makes them particularly accessible wines, perfect for meals with family or friends.

World-renowned expertise

American viticulture combines scientific rigour with artisanal passion. Renowned oenologists, sustainable practices and a constant quest for quality have propelled Californian wines to the top of the world rankings.

Today, California is no longer just a tourist destination, but an essential reference point for lovers of great red wines and modern white wines.