The wine industry in California was founded over 150 years ago, and by the end of the 19th century, Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley were celebrated for the excellence of their wines. In The Wines of California, Stephen Brook not only explains how the combination of climate, soil, tradition, and innovation has made California wines so distinctive and successful but also extends his exploration into the specific regions, varieties and vineyards that are the embodiment of this success.

Starting with an extensive section of the main wine regions of the state, Brook includes lists of prestigious single vineyards, helping wine buyers to understand where these wines come from and what makes them so special. This is followed by a section on viticulture and wine making, which provides information on the technical innovations that have brought California wines to their level of current prominence. The last part of the book highlights specific wineries, as Brook surveys 630 of them and focuses on those of exceptional interest. Throughout, he demonstrates the wide-ranging knowledge and informed enthusiasm that characterized his earlier, highly regarded book Liquid Gold for which he received the André Simon Award.