Great Winemaking Regions Around the World
In general, wine grapes grow best between the 30th and 50th degree of latitude in either hemisphere of the world, according to Wikipedia. Within this range, there is an exciting amount of variation due to climate, soil conditions, growing techniques and the choice of which grapes to grow. Here are some of the world's best wine regions.
France
Probably the country that has associated itself most with wine, France brings you the Bordeaux, the Cabernet Sauvignon and many other wine varieties. The Loire Valley is a major wine-growing region, as is the Rhone Valley, and don't forget Chardonnay from Burgundy and you-know-what from Champagne.
Spain
Spain has more of its land devoted to vineyards than any other country, but growing conditions on dry, rocky Spanish soil are sometimes sub-optimal. That hasn't stopped sangria, sherry from the town of Jerez, or Rioja wine from the region with the same name, from taking the world by storm.
Italy
Italy is actually the world's biggest wine producer, and Italians consume more wine per capita than the citizens of any other country. There have been vineyards in the country since the days of ancient Rome. Sangiovese is made in Tuscany, sweet Moscato comes from Piedmont, and Pinot Grigio is grown all over the country for commercial export.
California
Not to be outdone, California's Napa Valley and Sonoma County regions have made a big name for themselves in the international wine market. Perhaps the best-known California wine is Zinfandel, which can be either a bold red wine or a pale, pink-colored "white" zinfandel. However, California vineyards also produce versions of world-famous wines such as Merlot and Chardonnay.
Australia
Wine is produced in every Australian state and sold inexpensively to thirsty markets in the United States and Asia. Australia is known for its Shiraz (as distinct from Syrah, which comes from Spain) and other familiar varieties such as Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. Many popular wine brands in the U.S., such as Yellow Tail, are Australian.
Argentina
South American countries such as Argentina and Chile have come into their own as major wine producers. Argentina's most well-known wine variety is the Malbec. While this grape varietal originally comes from France, it is used mostly for blending in French wines, according to About.com. Argentine vineyards, however, have embraced Malbec, which is rustic and full-bodied, with ripe fruit undertones, ideal for pairing with spicy Latin American cuisine.