1.   Although zinfandel was once considered the only American fine wine grape, its European origins are undeniable.

2.   But they have succeeded in making syrah an important and, at long last, trendy American grape.

3.   Chardonnay is the American grape.

4.   Still, if the patriotic impulse cannot be suppressed, why not go for an American wine, made from truly American grapes?

5.   These grapes, grown mostly in the Northeast, preserve some of the better characteristics of American grapes while eliminating the worst.

6.   Zinfandel may be the most exotic of all American grapes.

7.   He said he also would discuss more trade matters with the Chinese, such as restrictions hindering the import of American grapes and textiles.