December 30th - This Date in Wine History

 Map of the Howell Mountain Viticultural Area by Gretchen Miller Neuman for Qorkz.


Wine has a long established history of being our drink of choice for celebrating, entertaining, and savoring life; but it didn't start out that way. From the invention of the barrel to the designation of the separate viticultural areas, wine has a long and sorted history.  In our daily feature This Date In Wine History, we share an event of critical importance in wine history.


  • California's Howell Mountain AVA was designated in 1983.
  • The Valdichiana DOC was established in 1989.

December 1st - This Date in Wine History

Flag of the State of Oregon


Wine has a long established history of being our drink of choice for celebrating, entertaining, and savoring life; but it didn't start out that way. From the invention of the barrel to the designation of the separate viticultural areas, wine has a long and sorted history.  In our daily feature This Date In Wine History, we share an event of critical importance in wine history.


  • Oregon's Willamette Valley AVA was designated in 1983.  (Willamette Dammit! - Your pronounciation guide)
  • Spain's Ribera del Duero DO was established in 1992.

Green Valley of Russian River Valley - Wine Region of the Day

Green Valley of Russian River Valley


Photo of the Green Valley of Russian River Valley by David Toomey for Qorkz


The Green Valley of Russian River Valley AVA is located on 19,000 acres in Sonoma County, California. The Green Valley of Russian River Valley received its AVA distinction in 1983. The area is known for its sandy and well-draining soil and low fertility, causing the grapes to develop slowly on the vine and retain balance and acidity. The region is a sub-appellation of the Russian River Valley AVA, and its close proximity to the Pacific Ocean breeze and fog make it one of the coolest appellations within Sonoma County. The cold climate in the Green Valley favors the cultivation of cool climate varietals like Pinot NoirChardonnay, and Riesling.

November 21st - This Date in Wine History

Map of the Green Valley of Russian River Valley by Gretchen Miller Neuman for Qorkz.


Wine has a long established history of being our drink of choice for celebrating, entertaining, and savoring life; but it didn't start out that way. From the invention of the barrel to the designation of the separate viticultural areas, wine has a long and sorted history.  In our daily feature This Date In Wine History, we share an event of critical importance in wine history.


  • California's Green Valley of Russian River Valley AVA was designated in 1983.
  • California's South Coast AVA was designated in 1985.
  • New Mexico's Mimbres Valley AVA was designated in 1985.