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California's central valley, made up of the smaller Sacramento Valley and the vast San Joaquin Valley stretching south, is full of more interesting wines than bulk cabernet and chardonnay. There is an intriguing stock of Old World, Old California grapes including zinfandel, barbera, Tokay, petite sirah, chenin blanc and carignane, many on old vines. Growers have been quick to experiment with Mediterranean varietals such as viognier, malbec, tempranillo and syrah and modern hybrids such as Symphony. Look for these wineries based in the valley or using grapes grown there.
NORTH
DUNNIGAN HILLS AMERICAN VITICULTURAL AREA: R.H. Phillips, Toasted Head, EXP.
CLARKSBURG AVA: Bogle.
GRAPE BUYERS: Pine Ridge, Vinum.
SOUTHLODI/WOODBRIDGE AVA: Bargetto, Laurel Glen, Talus, Chouinard, Stevenot, Mettler, Delicato, Clay Station, Peirano, Michael & David, Lucas, Robert Mondavi Woodbridge.
MADERA AVA: Quady, Ficklin.
GRAPE BUYERS: Burgess, Cosentino, Kenwood, Turley.