Wine 101

Phylloxera – pronounced fill-ox-ur-a, is an aphidlike insect native to eastern North America that attacks grapevine roots. In the 1860’s it was unwilling transported from the U.S. to Europe and responsible for the almost complete devastation of the region’s vine population, most notably in France. But the cause also became the solution: America’s native grapevines were resistant, unlike the grapevines of Europe. To save the European vines and prevent further destruction, American rootstocks were grafted to the bottom of shoot cuttings of the vines that were being destroyed. The French were initially reluctant to this process, but soon realized this was the only method to save the vines. The grafting is still used to this day and saved the wine industry in Europe. Even though you will not hear a Frenchman say that! So, even though most French vintners look down on American wines, they need to thank us for saving their vines and their tradition of producing the top wines in the world.

So, France and the rest of Europe, you are welcome!