NOTES ON NAPA
By Tina Jones and Sylvia Jansen , ( ISG , CMS ), CSW
Napa . The name itself conjures an image of the finest in luxury and wine . The reputation , especially for fine wine , is well deserved . Napa Valley vineyards account for only 5 per cent of all acreage devoted to grapes in the United States , but internationally , Napa is the bestknown American wine region . Top California wines are almost invariably Napa wines .
The Valley has become a destination , thanks in part to the beauty of the green valley floors surrounded by mountains , and the easy access to San Francisco . Winemakers , investors , weary city people , and travellers alike have come to look toward Napa . Here is a little taste of why .
A few fast facts on how , when , and why Napa has risen to such fame :
• Town , County , Valley : Napa County covers only a slightly larger area than the Valley , but the Valley is the best place for grapes . The town of Napa sits in the southern part of the county .
• A Short Drive : About ninety minutes from San Francisco is the heart of the storied region . The valley in Napa Valley is tucked into an expanse of less than 75 kilometres long and about 35 kilometres wide .
• The Dirt : Wappo Indians named Napa Valley , which means “ Land of Plenty ,” recognizing the great soils and beautiful Mediterranean climate . The cooling fog rolls in from San Pablo Bay in the south , and heat comes in from the north end of the Valley . In short , it is a perfect climate to grow grapes , and a perfect place for tourism .
• Protected : Napa Valley became the first Agricultural Preserve in the USA in 1968 . The protected zone includes 36,000 acres .
• Latecomer : Napa was first planted in the 1830s after Sonoma to the west . The Valley ’ s wines grabbed attention in the late 1960s and 70s for intensely flavoured , stylish Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay .
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