What to drink in San Francisco

California is now one of the world’s largest and most exciting wine-producing areas, and the best vintages come from the wine country north of San Francisco, especially the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Most California wines are made from the classic European grape varieties but, unlike European wines, are identified by grape rather than by winegrowing district. Locally brewed beers and mineral waters are also popular, and the usual range of beverages are available.

RED WINE

Vines thrive in the mild climate of Northern California where cooling fogs help the grapes reach perfection. The main red wine varieties grown in the region are Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Zinfandel. Cabernet Sauvignon is still the prime grape type, with excellent vintages produced in all major growing regions.

Pinot Noir, used in the legendary French Burgundy wines, has become increasingly popular as wineries have mastered its temperamental nature, and the moist Anderson Valley in Sonoma and the Carneros in Napa Valley have emerged as prime growing regions. Merlot, used in many Bordeaux clarets, and Zinfandel, a bold and full-bodied grape popular in California, are grown all over the state.

WHITE WINE

As with red, California’s white wines are classified by grape variety, with Chardonnay by far the most popular of recent years. Grown throughout the West Coast region, this prestige grape produces wines varying in character from dry, light, lemon and vanilla-scented to the more headstrong and oaky. You can also find over 13 other white wine varieties and blends to try, as well as organically grown wines.

THE 1976 BLIND TASTING

On May 24, 1976, at a blind tasting organized by the English wine consultant Steven Spurrier, French judges awarded California red (Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 1973, Napa Valley) and white (Chateau Montelana 1973 Chardonnay, Napa Valley) wines the top prizes in their respective categories. Six of the top ten in each category were also California wines, a result that sent shock waves through the wine world. Within a decade, a number of illustrious French producers such as Baron de Rothschild had invested in California wineries of their own.

SPARKLING WINE

If proof were needed that California is a prime spot for making sparkling wine, then look no farther than the fact that the finest French wine producers have huge investments in California. Moet & Chandon and Mumm, among others, have set up wineries in the Napa Valley and elsewhere. These companies, along with local producers Schramsberg and Korbel, have helped the West Coast establish an international reputation for excellent “Champagne” at the right price.

BEER

The resurgence in small breweries across the US can fairly be credited to the success of San Francisco’s Anchor brewery, whose Steam Beer, Liberty Ale and other products show that American beer need not be bland and tasteless. Other tasty local brews include Mendocino County’s rich Boont Amber and Red Tail Ale.

OTHER DRINKS

Coffee drinks of all kinds are available from kiosks, cafés and restaurants across the city; you can also find a great variety of herbal teas.

WATER

Health-conscious San Franciscans avail themselves of locally produced mineral water, the best of which comes from Calistoga in Napa Valley. Many mineral waters come flavored with fresh fruit, and most are carbonated. The tap water is fresh and clean.

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