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WSET3 California Part 2 - Black Grape Varieties

Nov 13, 2024

California Black Grape Varieties

Introduction

  • Speaker: Jimmy Smith
  • Series: WSET Level 3
  • Focus: Black grape varieties of California
  • Structure: Multi-part series, parts 1-4 available for free, parts 5-9 require e-learning portal access

Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Overview: Most widely planted black grape variety in California
  • Key Event: Judgment of Paris (May 24, 1976) - California's wines rivaled Bordeaux
  • Characteristics:
    • Full-bodied, concentrated ripe cassis flavors
    • Spice characteristics from new oak (vanilla, coconut)
    • Diversity in style from restrained to ripe expressions

Zinfandel

  • Origin: Not native; from Croatia via Puglia (known as Primitivo)
  • Significance: Signature variety of California
  • Challenges in Cultivation: Uneven ripening
  • Wine Types:
    • Red Zinfandel: Concentrated, full-bodied, possibly off-dry due to high sugar
      • Flavors: Red and black fruits, dried fruits (raisins, prunes, figs), licorice
      • Herbaceous notes in some under-ripe berry wines
    • White Zinfandel: Produced from early-picked grapes, pale pink, fruity, medium sweet, low alcohol (around 8.5%)

Merlot

  • Popularity: Widely planted but less favored than Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Characteristics: Approachable, softer tannins, ripe black fruits (blackberry)
  • Regions:
    • San Juan Valley (inexpensive wines)
    • Cooler sites like Monterey, Napa, Sonoma (better quality with plum, blackberry)

Pinot Noir

  • Growing Regions: Moderate, ocean-affected areas
    • Russian River Valley, Los Carneros, Santa Maria Valley
  • Styles: Range widely based on site and winemaking
    • Light with gamey, vegetal notes
    • Rich with ripe red fruits (cherries, strawberries), sweet spice from oak

Syrah

  • Discussion: Less covered in syllabus
  • Growing Areas: Sonoma, Napa, Central Coast (Paso Robles)
  • Characteristics: Full-bodied, rich with licorice and pepper
    • Similar to Australian styles but with more restraint

Conclusion

  • Major black grape varieties in California covered
  • Next topic: White grape varieties (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc)
  • Interaction: Encouragement to comment, like, subscribe
  • Invitation: Visit for a class or wine tasting in London

Note: These notes are based on a lecture by Jimmy Smith, summarizing the significant black grape varieties in California as part of the WSET Level 3 series.

Full transcript