Winemaker Notes
For more than 30 years, Lewis Cellars has handcrafted wines that epitomize the intense flavors and bold character of the world-renowned Napa Valley. Opulent, voluptuous, and unapologetically provocative, their wines are for the true connoisseur who isn't afraid to go big. Guided by a meticulous, hands-on approach, Lewis has perfected the art of sensory winemaking, ensuring each bottle is both distinctive and unforgettable. To taste a Lewis Cellars wine is to immerse yourself in a multi-sensory experience—where sight, aroma, flavor, and finish intertwine in a seamless dance of complexity and intrigue, compelling you to take another sip. With a legacy built on excellence, Lewis Cellars has earned its place among Napa's finest, with – as Wine Spectator notes – "a record of excellence that few California wineries can rival."
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!