WSET level3 –California Graded A+

WSET level3 –California Graded A+ Climate in California (coastal region) - ANS-the influences of the exceptionally cold California Ocean Current is much more crucial -cold air, often accompanied by fogs, is drawn in from the ocean in the evening- lowers night time temperatures -it takes time for the sun to burn off the fog in the morning- the cooling influences extends well into the day -where there are gaps in the mountains, the cooling effect can reach well inland Valleys that lie at right angles to the ocean, such as those in Monterey & Santa Barbara Counties .... - ANSact as funnels for the cold air Climate in California (inland) - ANS-e.g. Central Valley -hot other factor that links all of the California's wine regions is.... - ANS- a lack of rain during the ripening season - drip irrigation is widely practiced The scarcity of autumn rain has always.... - ANS-allowed growers to leave the grapes on the vine long into the season -This extra hang time results in very ripe grapes - very concentrated flavors & high sugar levels *More recently many growers are picking slightly earlier for greater appreciation of freshness Cabernet sauvignon in California - ANS-the most widely planted black grape -full-bodied -very concentrated ripe cassis flavors