North America
North America is a significant wine-producing continent, encompassing the United States, Canada and Mexico. While its global reputation is most closely associated with California, the continent as a whole displays a remarkable variety of climates, grape varieties and winemaking traditions.[1]
Origins of viticulture
North America is home to several indigenous species of Vitis, including Vitis labrusca and Vitis riparia, which were historically used for local winemaking but often produced wines with distinctive “foxy” aromas.[2] Early colonists attempted to cultivate European Vitis vinifera, but success was limited until hybridisation and grafting were developed. The growth of the wine industry was severely interrupted by prohibition in the United States (1920–1933), which destroyed many vineyards and disrupted traditions, though some production for sacramental purposes continued.[3]
Landscapes and appellations
The continent spans a wide range of terroirs, from the warm valleys of California to the cool climates of Ontario and British Columbia. In the United States, appellation is organised through the American Viticultural Area (AVA) system, while Canada regulates production under the Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA). Mexico, with vineyards in Baja California and Coahuila, has emerged as a growing producer in recent decades.[4]
Grapes and styles
North America’s vineyards cultivate a broad spectrum of grapes. California is best known for Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel, while Oregon has established an international reputation for Pinot Noir. The cool-climate vineyards of Canada produce acclaimed Riesling and are world leaders in ice wine. Hybrids such as Vidal and Seyval Blanc are also planted in colder regions where vinifera struggles.[5]
Markets and reputation
California dominates production, accounting for the majority of North American wine output and playing a decisive role in shaping global perceptions of quality wine.[6] The United States is also one of the world’s largest wine-consuming nations, while exports continue to expand. Canadian icewine has become a notable export speciality, and Mexico’s modern producers have gained increasing international recognition.[7]
See also
References
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
- ↑ Pinney, A History of Wine in America: From the Beginnings to Prohibition, University of California Press, 1989, ISBN 978-0520062249.
- ↑ Stevenson, The Sotheby’s Wine Encyclopedia, 5th ed., DK, 2011, ISBN 978-0756686840.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
- ↑ Pinney, A History of Wine in America, Volume 2: From Prohibition to the Present, University of California Press, 2005, ISBN 978-0520241767.