California

California produces some of the New World's most celebrated wines, anchored by Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma and Russian River Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and a growing range of cooler-climate styles. The wines tend to combine ripe fruit weight with the structure to suit serious cellaring.

Napa Cabernet partners aged beef, lamb and game, while Sonoma Pinot suits duck, pork and mushroom dishes. The Chardonnays work across seafood, poultry and creamy dishes, and the top reds reward fifteen or more years in the cellar.