American Wine

Wine is consumed worldwide by aficionados and laypeople alike. It is a beverage that can be consumed alone or paired with a multitude of foods. Most people think of Europe as the place to get the best wine, however the United States is home to many quality wineries. In fact, the United States produces the fourth largest amount of wine behind France, Italy and Spain. Each of the 50 states produces wine but California is by far the leader. Notably, California produces more wine than all of Australia. Other notable wine states include Oregon, Washington and New York.

Wine has been produced in America for more than 300 years. The first wine was produced in what is now near to Jacksonville, Florida. This wine, created around 1562 was made from Scuppernong grapes by French settlers. Original European settlers referred to North America as Vinland because of the vast amount of grape vines found there.

Commercially, wine has been in the United States since 1799. The first vineyard was established by the Kentucky Legislature. Ever since, with the exception of Prohibition in the 1920s, wine has been a prevalent part of American culture. In fact, a great deal of research on grape types and winemaking strategies has been done in U.S. universities.

Although the United States continues to work hard to become well-known worldwide as an authority on wine making, it is making progress by winning international wine competitions. The United States is gaining in popularity among wine experts worldwide. If you are a beginner in the wine world, try joining a wine club or visiting various local tastings. If possible, opt for wine flights during dinner out so that you can try multiple wines. Ask the restaurants sommelier to recommend a good wine. If interested, ask specifically for an American wine. The only way to develop your palette and know what you like is to try lots of different wines