Changing Acres

In the last decade, the fine winegrowing regions of California have reduced their acreage in a number of formerly popular grape varieties. Here is a brief look at how things have changed for some of these “new orphan” grape varieties. Numbers are approximate acres of varieties listed:

Wine-Growing Acreage

Grape Variety Napa Valley (acres) Sonoma County (acres) 1980 1990 1980 1990 Chenin Blanc 2,900 1,330 510 580 Riesling 1,470 470 100 650 Gewurztraminer 510 150 790 630 Petite Sirah 936 480 1,030 340 Cabernet Sauvignon 5,500 8,700 4,360 5,400 Chardonnay 3,700 9,300 3,050 8,530

SOURCE: Napa Valley Grape Growers / Sonoma County Grape Growers

In the last decade, Pinot Noir grape acreage has stayed static while total red wine production has decreased and sparkling wine production has increased. Merlot acreage has doubled in the last decade.

Total wine grape acreage in the Napa Valley grew from 25,200 in 1980 to 32,700 in 1990.

Total wine grape acreage in Sonoma County grew from 18,900 in 1980 to 28,000 in 1990.