"Old World" vs "New World" Wine

I think it's safe to say that most of us have heard the terms "old world" and "new world" when it comes to wine.
To put things very simply, old world wines are from countries that have been making wine for centuries, like France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Germany.
New world wines are produced by countries that have been making wines for maybe 100-150 years, like the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile and South Africa.
Now there are tons of differences between old and new world wines.
But this is a blog, not a book.
So let's just compare some wines and see what the taste differences are.
Once again, to keep things simple, I'm going to compare French Pinot Noir (Red Burgundy) to California Pinot Noir and French Chardonnay (White Burgundy) to California Chardonnay.

2012 Rombauer Chardonnay, Napa Valley - $33 (14.5% alcohol)
Vibrant tropical fruit, cantaloupe and butterscotch
2011 Dupont Fahn Bourgogne Blanc, Burgundy - $33 (13.5% alcohol)
Lemon zest, wet stone and a distinct chalkiness

2010 Melville Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills CA - $36 (14.5% alcohol)
Cherries, rose petals and sweet herbs
2010 Domaine Charles Audoin Marsannay, Burgundy - $36 (13% alcohol)
Raspberry leaf, damp earth and subtle mineral notes 

Talk about being stylistically different! Those don't even sound like the same grapes.
BTW, I listed the alcohol levels because typically, new world wines are higher in alcohol than old world. That proves true in this comparison.
"So Tom", you might ask, "what do you prefer, old or new world styles"?
Actually, I like both. But, if you put a gun to my head, I would probably lean toward old world.
I find that they go much better with food given their lower alcohol levels and greater structure.
New world wines also go well with food, but, thanks to the fruit forward character of the wines, they are very pleasant to drink all by themselves.
Whatever you do, try both styles and decide for yourself.

Tom