Legends
Richard Arrowood & Phil Coturri – Episode 1
They may seem like an unlikely pairing but, together, their contributions to California winemaking can’t be understated.
This year, the SVVGA marks the third and final year of its three-year campaign celebrating 200 years of Sonoma Valley wine—honoring the planting of the first wine grapes more than two centuries ago and the birth of a world-renowned wine region. The 2026 theme, “Year of Community,” recognizes the enduring role of wine in bringing people together—around the table, through shared meals, and in celebration—highlighting how food and wine have always been at the heart of connection and community in Sonoma Valley.
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Two hundred years ago, Father Altimira and Indigenous workers planted about one thousand “Mission” varietal grapevines to the North and East of the Mission San Francisco Solano (Sonoma Mission) in Sonoma Valley, CA. The Mission grapes were mainly used as sacramental and table wine for the missionaries. When put into perspective, the vineyard use was a somewhat small operation given its limited purpose being for the sacrament of communion. “Sonoma 200” celebrates the bicentennial of this historical event.
2024: The Year of the Farmer In 2024, we pay tribute to the backbone of Sonoma Valley: the dedicated farmers who cultivate our fertile lands and preserve our agricultural traditions. Join us as we celebrate the vibrant tapestry of farming culture that has shaped our region for generations.
2025: The Year of the Vintner In 2025, we raise our glasses to the artisans behind Sonoma Valley’s world-renowned wines. From vine to bottle, we honor the craftsmanship, passion, and innovation of our vintners, whose dedication continues to define our region’s vinicultural excellence.
2026: The Year of Community In 2026, we come together to celebrate the heart and soul of Sonoma Valley: its people. From artisans and entrepreneurs to residents and visitors alike, join us in spotlighting the diverse voices, stories, and experiences that embody the vibrant spirit of our community.
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Anaba Winery – 2 for 1 tastings – More here…
Abbots Passage – 2 for 1 tastings – More here…
Passagio Winery – 2 for 1 tastings – More here…
Anaba Winery – 2 for 1 tastings – More here…
Abbots Passage – 2 for 1 tastings – More here…
Passagio Winery – 2 for 1 tastings – More here…
Anaba Winery – 2 for 1 tastings – More here…
Abbots Passage – 2 for 1 tastings – More here…
Passagio Winery – 2 for 1 tastings – More here…
The phrase “Valley of the Moon” was first recorded in an 1850 report by General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo to the California Legislature.
By 1863 the Valley had 1,100,000, second to Los Angeles with 1,200,000, in the US.
The United States Navy operated a rest center at the Sonoma Mission Inn through World War II.
The Sonoma Plaza was laid out in 1835 by General Vallejo. It is 8 acres, the largest of its kind in California.
Sonoma’s City Hall is located in the center of The Plaza and was originally designed with four identical facades so that merchants from any side of the square could say the City Hall faced their businesses.
The current Mercato shops on the Plaza were originally a roller rink, built by Samuele Sebastiani. It later turned into Food City grocery store.
In 1952, Hanns Cornell Champaign was located where Safeway is today. They shipped champagne all over the US. They moved the winery to Calistoga in 1958.
Grape prices at San Francisco went for $.02 – .04/lbs. for Mission grapes in 1824.
San Francisco was the wine storage capital of CA in 1906.
The first grapes were planted in Sonoma behind the Mission.
John Quincy Adams is elected US President.
J W Goodrich introduces rubber galoshes to public.
The first toy balloon was invented by Professor Michael Faraday.
Braille reading and writing for the blind was invented by Louis Braille of France.
Modern cement was invented by Joseph Aspdin of England.
The first toothpaste is said to have been created in 1824 by Dr. Peabody.
Ludwig van Beethoven’s 9th (Choral) Symphony, often regarded as his greatest work, premieres in Vienna.
Mexico becomes a republic.
Ambrose Burnside, American soldier, industrialist and politician (Governor of Rhode Island) was born in Liberty, In. We can thank Sideburns to him!
New York City’s Fifth Avenue opens for business.
They may seem like an unlikely pairing but, together, their contributions to California winemaking can’t be understated.
They may seem like an unlikely pairing but, together, their contributions to California winemaking can’t be understated.
The Legend Series launches with two men who started at ground zero in Sonoma Valley winemaking.
More epic tales from two leading luminaries of Sonoma Valley wine.
Delve into the old days with two patriarchs of Sonoma Valley wine.
Delve into the old days with two patriarchs of Sonoma Valley wine.
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