NVL things to do
THE GREAT NAPA VALLEY FOUNDERS HISTORICAL TOUR
A Nod to the Innovative Pioneers Who Brought Napa Valley to Life BY MELISSA VOGT
Charles Krug Tasting Room Photo Courtesy of Charles Krug
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Buena Vista Founder, Agoston Haraszthy
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NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM
n 1839, a man named George Calvert Young first planted grapes in Napa Valley, recognized today as one of the world’s leading wine-growing regions. Early grape-growing pioneers began establishing their wineries in the local region roughly 20 years later. Just over the hill in Sonoma County, Buena Vista Winery became the first established commercial winery in all of California in 1857. Charles Krug founded the first commercial winery in Napa Valley in 1861. To follow, Beringer Vineyards in 1876 and Inglenook in 1879. Beaulieu Vineyard was established in 1900 and was one of the very few local wineries that remained in production during Prohibition, selling sacramental wine to local churches. These five wineries paved the way for future winegrowers and undoubtedly elevated Napa Valley as a world-class wine-growing region. They made a lasting impact on the local wine-growing community and the international world of wine. In essence, these founders helped garner the clout and reputation for which Napa wines are known today.
For those interested in learning more about Napa’s founders and the region’s rich and storied history, taking a tour and tasting experience at the following wineries should not be missed:
BUENA VISTA WINERY Buena Vista Winery is California’s first premium winery; it was founded by Agoston Haraszthy in 1857. While the estate resides in Sonoma County, its proximity to and impact on Napa Valley makes it an important piece of the historical puzzle. Haraszthy immigrated from Hungary in 1842 and settled in Sonoma, where he founded Buena Vista Winery as an eccentric farmer, innovator, and vintner. After searching for prime vineyard land across California, he ultimately settled on the ideal terroir in Sonoma. By 1860, Haraszthy had more than 250 acres of planted vines. His trailblazing efforts to grow grapes in Sonoma inspired many of the Napa founders, including Charles Krug, to plant vineyards and make wine in these neighboring counties. // www.buenavistawinery.com
