The New California Wine

Credit: Todd Coleman

From the first rustic wines of nearly 250 years ago to the bold Napa reds that have won the world's attention over the last few decades, the state's vintners have always been groundbreakers. In recent years, a new era has been dawning in California: one of fascinating wines that reflect the personality of the place while drawing inspiration from afar. Herewith, we pay tribute to the legends and the pioneers, celebrate great moments in California wine's history, and showcase the bottles to buy now. It's time to take another sip of the Golden State's wines and savor its culture of creativity.

In this special section:
•Jon Bonné on the New California Wine
•Today's Pioneers: four winemakers who exemplify California's sense of viticultural adventure
•Promised Land: What makes California terroir so special?
•The Evolution of Cabernet: The story of a grape, in three phases
•5 Milestones in California Wine
•93 California Wines to Drink Now