The Makers of American Wine: A Record of Two Hundred Years

Thomas Pinney traces the history of American wine through the lives of thirteen key figures who built an industry now present in every state. This narrative begins with early failures and moves through two centuries of development, highlighting those who shaped viticulture across the nation. The book profiles diverse contributors such as Nicholas Longworth, who created the first popular American wine, and George Husmann, a German immigrant who promoted the Norton grape and supplied rootstock to rescue French vineyards. It also examines Frank Schoonmaker’s advocacy for varietal labeling and Maynard Amerine’s role in establishing UC Davis as a leading winemaking school. Other chapters cover Charles Kohler’s efforts to place California wines on the map, Percy T. Morgan’s vision of wine as big business, and the Gallo brothers’ creation of new markets. Pinney’s engaging style brings together these varied stories to show how the industry evolved from experimental failures to a robust national sector. The work is suitable for readers interested in the biographical history of American viticulture and the specific individuals who drove its growth. It may not appeal to those seeking technical manuals or contemporary tasting notes, as it focuses on historical records and personal accounts rather than modern advice.