Napa Valley produces less than 5% of California’s wine by volume, yet represents around 25% of its total value (2025 numbers) !
Here are 5 key insights about this fabulous region.
1️⃣ Geography
Napa Valley is located in Northern California. It is a long, narrow valley running north–south, bordered by the Mayacamas Mountains to the west and the Vaca Mountains to the east. These mountain ranges create strong differences between valley floor, benches and hillside vineyards. Cooling influences from southern San Pablo Bay help moderate temperatures in this warm mediterranean climate.
2️⃣ Grape varieties
Cabernet sauvignon dominates, accounting for around half of all plantings. Chardonnay represents roughly 15%, followed by merlot, pinot noir and zinfandel. Vines are planted on a mix of volcanic, sedimentary and alluvial soils.
3️⃣ Wine style
Napa Valley wines are known for ripe fruit, concentration and a generous mouthfeel. Cabernet sauvignon typically shows dark fruit flavours, high velvety tannins and long ageing potential. Styles vary widely depending on altitude, exposure, proximity to the Bay and soil.
4️⃣ Appellations
Napa Valley is itself an AVA (US appellation), and contains 17 sub-AVAs. Well-known include Oakville, Rutherford and Stags Leap District. Mountain AVAs tend to produce more structured and fresher wines than bench vineyards, with valley floor AVAs usually giving the ripest and most generous styles.
5️⃣ Iconic estates
Napa Valley is home to some of the most famous wineries in the US. Estates such as Opus One Winery, Screaming Eagle and Robert Mondavi Winery are globally recognised.
