Populis Wabi-Sabi 2022

"Why Populis? Because it's all about you, our friends and allies, our brothers and sisters who want to drink delicious, honest wine. There is not enough wine with soul that we can afford to drink... and we like to drink! We work to find amazing vineyards all over Northern California where the farming is top-notch. Herbicides? NO! Synthetic pesticides? No! Organic farming? Always! Old vines? Duh! Complex, out of this world terroir? FOR SURE! And once we hunt down these special vineyards we do all we can to not screw it up – and by that, we mean no additions, no intervention, no tomfoolery – just straight up fermented juice."

California is a prominent wine-producing state in the United States. It is characterized by a wide variety of climates and geographical features conducive to viticulture. The state encompasses several well-known wine regions with distinct climatic conditions and grape varietals.

Napa Valley is one of the most famous wine regions globally and is located north of San Francisco. It is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, produced in a climate moderated by fog from San Pablo Bay. The region also grows Merlot, Chardonnay, and other varietals. Napa Valley features diverse soils, including volcanic and sedimentary, contributing to its wines' robust flavors.

Sonoma County neighbors Napa Valley and is more extensive and diverse. It has a cooler climate due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, making it ideal for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel. Sonoma County is known for its varied terroirs, from the cool Sonoma Coast to the warmer Sonoma Valley.

Central Coast spans from San Francisco Bay to Santa Barbara County and includes several smaller AVAs (American Viticultural Areas). This region produces a wide array of grapes, benefiting from a long growing season influenced by coastal breezes. Notable sub-regions include Paso Robles, known for robust red wines like Syrah and Zinfandel, and Monterey County, where cooler climate varietals like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir thrive.

Sierra Foothills, located east of Sacramento, rises from the valley into the mountains of the Sierra Nevada. This region, known historically for its role during the California Gold Rush, produces wine from old vine Zinfandel and increasingly notable Rhône varietals. The higher elevation results in significant diurnal temperature variation, which preserves acidity and enhances flavor complexity in the grapes.

Lodi is in the Central Valley, south of Sacramento, and benefits from a Mediterranean climate. It is known for its old vine Zinfandel, with some vines dating back to the late 19th century. Lodi's sandy soils provide good drainage and are resistant to phylloxera, contributing to the health and longevity of its vines.

Mendocino County is north of Sonoma and has a cooler maritime climate. It is recognized for organic and sustainable viticulture, focusing on Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The region's Anderson Valley benefits from coastal fog and cool temperatures that extend the growing season.

Each of these regions contributes to California's reputation as a versatile and high-quality wine-producing area, committed to tradition and innovative practices in viticulture and enology.