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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