What Are Forgotten Grapes

Thousands of grape varieties exist around the world and more than 110 different varieties are planted in California. But of those 110+ varieties, nine varieties dominate. In fact, those nine varieties (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio on the white grape side, and Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Syrah, and Petit Sirah among red grapes), make up 93% of the total wine grape plantings in California.

THESE ARE NOT FORGOTTEN GRAPES!

Forgotten Grapes are any of the remaining 100+ wine varieties grown in California that comprise the remaining 7% of total plantings. These are grapes with origins in France, Spain, Germany, Portugal, Italy, Central Europe, Eastern Europe, South America, and right here in California. Some of these grapes were among the earliest vines planted in the state by its original settlers. These grapes are vitally important to the history of winemaking in California yet are woefully under-represented in the market today.

The Festival of Forgotten Grapes aims to change this. The Festival of Forgotten Grapes is a showcase of these lesser-known and uncommon wines, and your chance to taste the great history of California winemaking, and its future.