Grapes in Napa Valley
Grapes are berry fruits that can be consumed fresh or used to make wine, juice, and vinegar, among other things. Grapes are well-known for their use in the production of fine wine. Napa Valley, based in California, United States, is regarded as one of the world's leading wine regions.
Geological Details
Among the geological details that support grape growing in Napa Valley are the following: the site is America's first Agricultural Preserve. As a result, the area has a remarkable natural beauty as well as a wine-growing heritage. As a result, through environmental leadership and community stewardship, this will be maintained for future generations. Besides, the Napa Valley is located in an area where the soils are conducive for the growing of grapes. The soil is mainly made up of the deposited sediments from bays located around the valley (Courtney 54). The large volume of volcanic ash and lava also play a significant role in the growing of grapes in this region.
Napa River
Another geographical factor favoring the growth of grapes in Napa Valley is the presence of Napa River. This river bisects the valley and follows the tapered contour. In the absence of rain, water is required at least weekly, penetrating up to the surface of twelve inches. Hence for quality grapefruits, the availability of this river is essential in the watering of grapes during periods of little rainfall (Burnham 72).
Scientific Names and Description of Napa Valley Grapes
The scientific name for Cabernet Sauvignon is Vitis vinifera. Its prominence is brought about by the fact that it can thrive in any climatic conditions. In the Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon is grown on alluvial and dusty soil.
The scientific name for Chardonnay Vitis sylvestris. This variety of grape is green skinned grape used in the production of white wine. It is an important component in the making of sparkling wines. Wine made from Chardonnay grapes can range in flavor from crisp to buttery.
The scientific name for Pinot Noir is Vitis vinifera. It has blackberry skin. It gets primarily used in sparkling wine production in Champagne. It arguably became very popular among consumers in the United States in 2005.
The scientific name for Sauvignon Blanc is Vitis vinifera. The color of the berry skin is Blanc. The vine often buds late but ripens early which allows it to perform well in sunny climates. The wine produced from this wine is referred to as Fume Blanc.
The scientific name for Zinfandel is Vitis vinifera. The grapes typically produce red wine. In the United States, White Zinfandel has six times as many sales as the red wine.
The scientific name for Syrah also known as Shiraz is Vitis vinifera. It thrives well in stony granite soils. It can be used as a single varietal or as a blend. It gets associated with the classic wines.
The scientific name for Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio is Vitis vinifera. The color of the berry skin is the rose. The grapes grow in small pine cone-shaped clusters.
Napa Valley: A World-renowned Place for Grape Production
The Napa Valley is a world-renowned place famous for the production of grapes. The geographical location of the valley makes it favorable. It is also noticeable that the climatic conditions in the area favor the production of grapes.
Works Cited
Burnham, Kelsey. Prohibition in Wine Country. Napa Valley Register: 2010
Courtney, Kevin. New Park Named for father of wine tourism Lee Enterprises: 2005
