What is the standard minimum percentage for varietal wines in the rest of the USA?

The standard minimum percentage for varietal wines in the rest of the USA is indeed 75%. This means that for a wine to be labeled as a varietal (indicating it is made primarily from a single grape variety), at least three-quarters of the wine must come from that specific grape variety.

The rationale behind this regulation is to ensure that the wine delivers the characteristics and qualities associated with the grape listed on the label, giving consumers a consistent and recognizable product. While many regions have different specific requirements, the 75% standard is widely accepted across the majority of the United States.

Understanding this minimum is crucial for evaluating and selecting wines, as it helps consumers anticipate the predominant flavors and aromas that they can expect from a varietal wine.