October 9th - This Date in Wine History

Leif Erikson stamp issued by the USPO


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.


  • In a letter dated 1515, Leonardo di Vinci complains to his steward, Zanobi Boni about the quality of the wines being produced on his estate and includes specific instructions regarding the fertilization of the grapes and the production of the wine.
  • David Lett founder of Eyerie Vineyards died in 2008
  • Today is Leif Erikson Day.  Erikson is thought to have discovered America in 1000.  During his travels he discovered a place called Vinland which had grapes which made delicious wine.