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Author: Libbie Agran

Legend of Daniel Callan

Legend of Daniel Callan

Posted by | Feb 23, 2022 | |

The Wine History Project spent several years developing criteria for the person, place, grape, vineyard or event to be selected as a LEGEND for our archives and website. In general each LEGEND has made an impact that has profoundly influenced the Wine History of San Luis Obispo County. Daniel Callan is the youngest person selected to date. He is the Assistant Winemaker at Thacher Winery. But he also has developed several historical research projects that include identifying the “Lost or Forgotten California Vineyards” where grapevines have flourished over 100 years ago. His love of history has brought new attention to heirloom grape varieties planted in California in the 19th Century and the winemaking techniques used in each era. Daniel is researching, cultivating and making wine from these forgotten grapes.

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Made In Italy

Posted by | Feb 9, 2022 |

This video provides a rare opportunity to see the ancient art and techniques of highly skilled artisans preparing the clay material and crafting a large amphora in the town of Impruneta, a center for producing terracotta for thousands of years. Mossimo Pocci filmed this workman in his studio and the kilns in which the amphora was fired.

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The Mission Vineyard Project Update | January 2022

The Mission Vineyard Project Update | January 2022

Posted by | Jan 30, 2022 | |

Our viticulture and wine history in San Luis Obispo County originated with the Spanish Crown seeking new lands to conquer and sending explorers to the Pacific Coast. The grapevines, Vitis vinifera, were brought by ship from Spain to Mexico and became known in the New World as Mission Grapes. The grape variety was identified as Listán Prieto in the 21st Century. The first chapter of California wine history is defined by twenty-one missions with chapels, agricultural crops and vineyards managed by the Spanish Franciscan padres who made a dull unstable red wine and an exciting distilled brandy to fortify their wine. 

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The Impact Of John (Jack) Foott, Agricultural Advisor, Who Planted Experimental Vineyards Throughout San Luis Obispo County

The Impact Of John (Jack) Foott, Agricultural Advisor, Who Planted Experimental Vineyards Throughout San Luis Obispo County

Posted by | Jan 28, 2022 | |

John H. Foott served as the agricultural advisor to San Luis Obispo County from 1966 to 1991 when he retired from the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Department of University of California Statewide Extension (UCCE). Everyone knew him as Jack Foott. His legacy surrounds us in the vineyards, fruit orchards, avocado groves and vegetable fields that grow throughout San Luis Obispo County.

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