Maipo Valley’s wine history begins with Spanish missionaries in the 16th century, but what happened next forever…

Wine has played a pivotal role in society since ancient times. For the Romans, wine was a cornerstone of daily life, defining social gatherings and even being used in religious rituals. The importance of wine during this era can still be felt through the rich traditions and cultural practices that have been passed down through

When you think of California wine, you might picture sprawling vineyards and stylish wineries. The story of these vineyards, however, begins with the Spanish Missions. Spanish missionaries played a crucial role in establishing California’s first vineyards, using imported cuttings of Vitis vinifera, better known as the Mission grape. The first mission, Mission San Diego de

South Africa’s wine heritage stretches back to the mid-17th century when Dutch settlers brought viticulture to the region. The first known wine produced in South Africa was made by Jan van Riebeeck, who established vineyards in 1652 to provide wine to Dutch sailors. This early step laid the foundation for a rich tradition of winemaking

When you think of wine in America, California might come to mind first. But Virginia is actually the birthplace of American wine, with early vineyards dating back to the colonial era. The settlers in Jamestown, arriving in the New World from England in 1607, planted the first vines. They hoped to create a cash crop

The wine trade in Enlightenment Europe played a crucial role in shaping the modern economic landscape. During the Enlightenment, increased political freedom and the push for free trade altered how goods, including wine, were exchanged across borders. As you delve into this period, you’ll find that the exchange of ideas spurred by the Enlightenment went

Imagine stepping back to the Renaissance period, a time when art, science, and culture flourished across Europe. During this era, winemaking also saw remarkable advancements, thanks to several notable figures. Their contributions helped shape modern viticulture techniques that continue to influence today’s wine industry. You might be surprised to learn that these individuals, often known