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Many connoisseurs associate American wine with one word - California. And rightly so. After all, the Golden State
produces nearly 80% of American vino, and most of North America's superstar vintages. California's sunshine,
refreshing breezes, and fertile soil have cemented it the American mecca of wine since the early 1900s. However,
this powerhouse now faces formidable competition from two Pacific Northwest states, Washington and Oregon. Both
are blessed with cooler climates - blending warm sunshine and soothing Pacific Ocean winds - ideal for wine-making.
Such gentle temperatures allow red grape varieties to ripen slowly and develop full, complex flavors. ENO offers
all of the wines for which California, Washington, and Oregon are famous - Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay,
Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Syrah. Learn more about these award-winning, wine-making states and their
captivating regions below:
California
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Napa Valley- The most famous wine-producing region in the United States. Rivals France's illustrious
Bordeaux region for fine Cabernet Sauvignons. The Napa Valley also produces the best California Chardonnays
and Merlots, and is renowned for its Cabernets and Zinfandels.
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Sonoma Valley - One of California's first wine-making areas, with vineyards planted as early as 1825.
Was eclipsed in reputation by the Napa Valley in the late 1800s, but re-emerged in the 1970s. Boasts the
ideal combination of soil, sun, moisture, and geography for growing exceptional wine grapes. Celebrated for
its Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignons, Zinfandels, and Pinot Noirs.
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Carneros - The dominant grapes grown here are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. About one-third of the grapes
are used for sparkling wine, made in the classic French "champagne" method.
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Central Coast - Known for its sandy soil, warm climate, and ocean breezes. The majority of the grapes
grown here are for white wine. Chardonnay is by far the most common grape on the Central Coast, followed
closely by Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel.
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North Coast - Nearly all major types of wine grapes are grown in this region, which is celebrated for
its superb table, sparkling, and dessert wines. The North Coast is responsible for 35% of California's Merlot,
45% of its Cabernet Sauvignon, and 30% of its Chardonnay.
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Sierra Foothills - Though relatively unknown, this burgeoning region has grown wine grapes since the
California Gold Rush. The Sierra Foothills are most noted for their ripe, chocolaty Zinfandels.
Washington
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Puget Sound - A lush region located near a large body of water, boasting an ideal climate that's not
too hot or cold. Pinot Noir, Madeleine Angevine, Siegerrebe, and Chasselas thrive here, and Pinot Gris can
be found in both the Puget Sound area and the more arid Eastern Washington vineyards. The differences in
climate create Pinot Gris wines of distinctly different flavors.
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Columbia Valley - The Northwest's warmest and sunniest region. More than 90% of Washington's wine
grapes are grown here. The climate allows Cabernet and Chardonnay grapes to fully ripen. In recent years,
several award-winning merlots and cabernets have sprung up from the Columbia Valley.
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Yakima Valley - One of the Northwest's first wine grape-growing regions. Lies at the same latitude
as the great French wine-producing areas, and its long growing season, warm summer days, and cool nights are
perfect for raising premium wine grapes
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Walla Walla Valley - It's been said that Walla Walla wineries are setting the standard for Northwestern
wine-making. More than 40 wineries and vineyards can be found here, and they routinely produce world-class
vinos. In fact, the region has received international acclaim for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and
Syrah wines.
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Red Mountain - Washington's newest wine region. Its wines demonstrate an exceptional balance of fruit,
acidity, and tannin. The dominant grapes are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah.
Oregon
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Willamette Valley - Oregon's most famous wine-growing region. It's known for producing many of the
greatest Pinot Noirs outside of the Burgundy region of France, as well as excellent Pinot Gris, Chardonnay,
and Pinot Blanc.
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Umpqua Valley - One of Oregon's most historic wine-growing regions, dating back to 1880. Its warm
sunshine, ocean breezes, and gently cooling autumn allow grapes to ripen gradually, under moderate
temperatures. This allows them to develop complex fruit flavors, aromas, and nuances. Umpqua is
also known for its high-quality Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.
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Rogue River Valley - Oregon's southernmost and warmest wine-growing region. Produces memorable Pinot
Noir, Gewurtztraminer, Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Zinfandel.
Being an enophile is more than appreciating great wine - it's a lifestyle. At ENO, we celebrate good taste with a
world-class array of international wines, cheese, and chocolates. Attracting both novices and aficionados,
ENO is a casual, educational, and most important, fun tasting experience.
Escape the standard wine bar concept by making your reservations with us today.
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