Eric Asimov wrote about "Placing a Bet on Italian Grapes in California" in the New York Times in April of 2022. But what about Mediterranean grapes in general, and the region of Temecula Valley specifically? Temecula Valley has remarkable climatic similarities to some of the world’s most celebrated wine regions. This session will explore the unique parallels between Temecula Valley in Southern California and various Old World regions across the globe. Led by Master of Wine Roger Bohmrich, attendees will go through a guided tasting of key examples to show the potential for these grapes to thrive in this popular Southern California wine region.

Attendees will leave with the following:

1) A clear sense of the unique climate conditions that make Temecula Valley NOT too hot to make great wine, and worth taking note of as a quality wine destination.
2) An understanding of key markers in identifying Mediterranean climates and grapes in discussions and blind tastings.
3) An understanding of key similarities and differences between the same grapes grown in Temecula Valley and several prominent Old World wine producing regions.
4) Why Mediterranean grape varieties have an exciting future in Southern California and Temecula specifically.
5) A greater appreciation for the importance of studying and highlighting occasionally overlooked wine regions for their potential and ability to surprise and delight consumers.