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The Origins of Horticulture in California: Grains, Gardens, Orchards and Vineyards 1769 – 1880

Native American landscapes have been described in detail in the early correspondence and diaries of explorers, travelers, and traders who traveled to Alta California and the Pacific Coast as early as 1518. Their writings note that the landscape was often shaped by burning foliage but the traditional agricultural practices of tiling the soil, weeding, pruning, irrigating, sowing seeds, and selective harvesting were also used by Native Americans.

Vineyard Profile – Edna Ranch And Tolosa Winery Founded By Growers Robin Baggett And Bob Schiebelhut

Edna Valley, Grower

Robin Baggett and Bob Schiebelhut were working as young lawyers in San Francisco soon after graduating from law school. Within a few years they were both dreaming of moving to an area with a more laid-back and idyllic lifestyle. The dream of living in a beautiful area on the Central Coast of California found its roots in childhood. Both men had family backgrounds “steeped” in agriculture.

Central Coast Timeline: Early Wine History

Early California Wine History

Early Explorers, the Missions Era, and the Mexican Period.

The Father of California Wine, Viticulture and Land Use Planning: Fray Junípero Serra

Early California Wine History

California viticultural history is unique in its origins, distinct from all other areas of the United States. California viticulture originated with the Spanish Crown seeking new lands to conquer and sending explorers to map and explore the Pacific Coast on land and sea.

Harvest Celebration The First Annual Celebration November 9, 1991 Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande Valley San Luis Obispo, California

Anniversaries, Awards, and Celebrations

The Harvest Celebration is a tradition that is still celebrated today. The name has changed several times to become known as Roll Out the Barrels and most recently, Harvest on the Coast. The sponsoring vintners’ association has also changed. The original name, Edna Valley Arroyo Grande Valley Vintners, founded in 1985, is now known as San Luis Obispo Coast Wine Collective, with a membership of 30 member wineries located on average five miles from the coast. They can be reached at info@slowine.com or at 805-550-2506

Piedra Creek Winery

Winery Owner/Founder

Romeo (Meo) made wines sourced from the finest grapes in San Luis Obispo County. He harvested his own grapes. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay came from the MacGregor Vineyard in the Edna Valley, and Zinfandel from the old vines in the Benito Dusi Vineyard in Paso Robles. Meo had a long history making wine at home in his laundry room in Southern California as a hobby starting in the 1960s. However, when he retired to the Edna Valley his talents and passion for winemaking brought him into the limelight. He started new careers as a grower and winemaker at age 75.

Domaine Alfred and the Chamisal Vineyard LEGEND – Terry Speizer

Legends, Winemaker

Summary Domaine Alfred Winery, founded by Terry Speizer in 1994, changed the history of winegrowing in the Edna Valley. Terry favored Pinot Noir, one of the most difficult grapes to grow. He researched the best clones grown in the area of Dijon, France, and planted...

Paderewski Festival | November 4-6

News - Overview, Past Events, Wine History - Events

The Paderewski Festival is a four-day music festival held annually in November celebrating Paso Robles’ rich heritage and its most famous resident Ignacy Jan Paderewski – virtuoso pianist, composer, international politician, local landowner, grower and winemaker. Concerts featuring world renown talent, exhibits, lectures, master classes and film screenings are accompanied by wine tastings and tours of local vineyards. A youth piano competition, recital and student cultural exchange with Poland additionally honor Paderewski’s legacy.