How to Read a Wine Label

Reading California Wine Labels

Befuddled by California wine labels? Clarity is here!

Hover over each element on the label to reveal more info.

European wine labels

It is common for European wines to be labeled regionally rather than by varietal. Examples of this include Chianti, a region in Italy that produces mostly Sangiovese-based wines. There are regional laws that govern the type of varietals that may be planted in the region, as well as blending, growing, and harvesting requirements. In order to appeal to international wine drinkers, some European winemakers are labeling their wines by varietal.

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