There are several California wineries focusing on producing wines using Rhone Valley varietals and styles. Qupe' really seems to be onto something with their current releases, which I found to be genuine and expressive of the famous French region they are moedeled after.

I just reutrned from a trip that included four days in Rhone Valley. The Winemakers over there are well aware that certain parts of California have become mini Rhone Valley producers in their own right. 

Qupe' grows grapes for their wines primariliy in three vineyard sites:

Santa Maria

Edna Valley

Las Olivos

Here's a look at three of their wines, which I recently tasted:

2014 Qupe' "Q" A Modern White - Central Coast 

A rich and elegant blend of Chardonnay, Viognier and Marsanne

2013 Qupe' "Q" A Modern Red - Central Coast

A fruit driven and slightly earthy blend of Syrah Grenache and Mouvedre

2012 Qupe' Syrah - Santa Barbara County

Deep and spicy with blue/black fruits, lavender, herbs and black pepper. 

If you are looking for something new and interesting to try from California, pick up a few of these wines and taste them with some Rhone Valley bottles. I think you'll find the style and quality true to the famous French region, with a decidedly California twist.