The Golden State looms large—and much to every other state’s dismay, it’s still the best-looking.

As of this writing, California has officially surpassed Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy. In other words, as if it didn’t already feel like a cultural standout, California’s numbers now support its unique position as an all-star in the international landscape. It is the nation’s leading exporter of agricultural products, entertainment and, of course, wine. And at a time when American culture is experiencing a complicated moment on the global stage, there remains something straightforwardly appealing about California dreamin’.

As a frequent visitor to the Golden State—for work, pleasure and pleasurable work—I find very few places quite as awe-inspiring as its diverse terrains. Earlier this year, comedian Daniel Tosh posted a viral video joking that while California is grappling with more climate change challenges than almost anywhere else in our country, it remains the number-one global source for screen saver stock imagery. Because it’s still, quite simply, one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

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In my view, the real punchline is this: California’s breathtaking beauty is so world-famous and universally accepted, that it’s almost easy to take it for granted. Every year, as we put together this special issue, I’m blown away by discoveries—new-to-me restaurants, vineyards, remote towns, hidden trails—that remind us all over again just how extraordinary this sprawling coastal
state really is.

Much like the focus of our next issue, Italy, no matter how many times you visit California, you’re only scratching the surface. There’s always more to see, from the rolling vineyards of Napa and Sonoma valleys to the mountainous, cowboy terrain of Paso Robles, the towering redwoods of the north, and the stark, yet infectiously cheerful aesthetic of
Palm Springs.

So let’s venture to this wondrous place again—to rediscover, to dream and to be reminded of why California will always hold an incomparable place in our wine-loving hearts and be the not-so-quiet envy of its peers.