Wine-leader Contra Costa Beats Out Napa Valley for Top Spot
I know what you wine-lovers out there must be thinking, “There is no way!” … And if you live in Contra Costa County, I’ll take it one step further and say you’re probably thinking – “There’s ABSOLUTELY no way!”
But believe it or not, at one point it was true. Contra Costa was home to the world’s largest winery, Winehaven, in the early 1900’s, surpassing famous wine regions like France’s Rhône Valley and others. East Bay’s microclimates and geographic position allowed for complex growing regions that produced some of the finest grapes around. According to an article in Diablo Magazine, “By 1919, 40 percent of the county’s agriculture was devoted to grape growing“ and for good reason.
Contra Costa remained a serious competitor until prohibition hit in 1920, at which point growers turned to other forms of agriculture and the land was quickly filled with suburban homes and developments. Today, there are boutique wineries springing up throughout the suburbs, which all serve as reminders of the legendary wine institution Contra Costa used to be. Perhaps in several years, the world will begin to know Contra Costa for its wine again!
As Trilogy communities across the country prepare for the Passport to Summer Fun Chocolate & Wine Affair this Saturday July 23rd, it’s only fitting that we take a closer look at East Bay’s Trilogy at The Vineyards, which boasts 30 acres of lush grapevines. Located in the city of Brentwood, The Vineyards is one of many developments and boutique wineries that has tapped into the rich land that makes Contra Costa’s wine so unique. We welcome you to experience all The Vineyards has to offer at its wine tasting this weekend. We hope to see you there! Call (800) 685-6494 to RSVP or for more information.
Click here for times and dates of a Passport to Summer Fun event near you.
Click here for more information on The Vineyards.
View this blog for information on wine & chocolate pairing.
Connect with us on Facebook & Twitter.