California viticulture history, distinct from other areas of the United States, is unique in its origins, its geographical isolation, and the diversity of widely planted grape varieties. California viticulture originated with the Spanish crown seeking new lands to conquer and sending explorers to map what is now coastal California. The grapevines, Vitis vinifera, were brought by ship from Spain and became known in the New World as Mission Grapes. They have been identified as Listán Prieto in recent years. Although the Mission San Miguel was founded on July 25,1797, the first evidence of grapevines is documented in the early 1800s. Two prosperous vineyards were established in Vineyard Canyon under the leadership of Father Juan Martin.