Napa Valley, located in Northern California, is the most famous wine region in the United States and a symbol of American fine wine. Though grape growing began in the 19th century, the modern rise of Napa came in the 1960s and 70s, culminating in the historic 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting where Napa wines—most notably Chateau Montelena Chardonnay and Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon—outperformed top French wines and put Napa on the global map. The region's Mediterranean climate, diverse soils, and varied elevations allow it to excel particularly with Cabernet Sauvignon, but also Merlot, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Napa is home to iconic producers such as Robert Mondavi, Heitz Cellar, Opus One, and Screaming Eagle, whose wines range from everyday quality to highly collectible cult status. Today, Napa Valley leads in sustainability, innovation, and hospitality, attracting millions of visitors each year to its more than 400 wineries. Its wines are known for richness, structure, and polish, often crafted with meticulous attention to detail and aging potential.