The wide range of grape varieties cultivated in Germany is impressive, with over 140 varietals ranging from from Acolon to Zweigeltrebe. Of these, the most notable are Germany’s world-class expressions of Riesling and Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder).

The home of Moscato, Chianti, Amarone and Prosecco – has a rich and diverse wine heritage dating back more than two thousand years. Famous for its bewildering diversity of both grape varieties and wine styles, Italy is also significant for the sheer volume of wine it produces.

Grapes were first planted in Mexico during the 16th century by the Spanish. Despite the region’s long history, the advance of modern Mexican wine is as recent as the 1970s. The region is a melting pot of French, Spanish, and Italian grapes, from Nebbiolo to Chenin Blanc, making up 7,700 acres of vineyards.

Grape vines have been grown on the Iberian Peninsula since at least 3000 B.C., although it was not until 1000 B.C. that winemaking began here in earnest – a skill brought by Phoenician traders from the eastern Mediterranean.

Switzerland may not be the most famous of wine-producing nations, but this small, mountainous country in western Europe has been making wine for more than two thousand years. Swiss wine’s lack of fame is not due to any lack of quality or quantity, but because it is produced mostly for (and consumed happily by) the Swiss themselves.

With a climate that ranges vastly from coast to coast, distinct grape varieties can thrive in various U.S. wine regions. California’s climate is ideal for producing rich, tannic and full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah wines, such as in the warm Napa Wine region, while the cooler coastal areas of Sonoma allow Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to excel. Just North of California lies the Pacific Northwest, which is comprised of Oregon and Washington.