California

Nearly three-quarters the size of France, California accounts for nearly 90 percent of American wine production. If California were a separate country, it would be the world's fourth-largest wine producer.

The state's viticultural history dates back to the 18th century, when Spanish missionaries planted the first vineyards to produce wine for Catholic mass. Since the 1960s the California wine industry has become a juggernaut, challenging traditional producers such as France, Spain and Italy with reliable wines of quality that are often at a more approachable price tag.

The Napa and Sonoma valleys are the most esteemed growing regions in California; they produce some of the most sought after Cabernets, Merlots, Pinot Noirs, and Chardonnays in the world. Other regions, such as Santa Barbara, Paso Robles, and Lake County are quickly developing into appellations that can rival the finest Napa wines for quality.

MadWine is dedicated to bringing you a broad selection of California wines in a wide range of categories and prices so that you can experience the terroir of the Golden State for yourself.