Charles Krug facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Krug
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Charles Krug
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| Born | 1 March 1825 Trendelburg, Kassel, Hessen, Germany
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| Died | 31 October 1892 |
| Occupation | best known as a winemaker, was editor of "Staats Zeitung" (German newspaper in SF), Staff Member at Free Thinker's School (Philadelphia), Gold Refiner at SF Mint |
| Known for | Founded the first commercial winery in the Napa Valley |
Charles Krug (1825–1892) was a very important person in the history of winemaking in California's Napa Valley. He started the first commercial winery there, called the Charles Krug Winery.
About Charles Krug
Charles Krug came to the United States from Prussia (a historical country in Europe) in 1847. He became an American citizen in 1852. Before starting his own business, he learned about winemaking. He worked as an apprentice (a trainee) for other winemakers like Agoston Haraszthy and John Patchett.
In 1860, Charles Krug married Carolina Bale. Her father, Edward Turner Bale, was an early settler and a miller (someone who grinds grain). Carolina's grandmother was María Isidora Vallejo, from the famous Vallejo family.
In 2007, Charles Krug was honored for his contributions to winemaking. He was added to the Vintner's Hall of Fame at the Culinary Institute of America.
His Winemaking Ideas
Carolina Bale received 540 acres (about 2 square kilometers) of land as a dowry (a gift of property or money given by a bride's family). This land was north of St. Helena, California. On this land, Charles Krug planted grapevines and started his winery in 1861.
Charles Krug brought new and smart ideas to winemaking in California. He began using a special cider press to squeeze the juice from grapes. He also carefully chose the best rootstocks (the part of the plant that grows underground), varietals (types of grapes), and vineyard locations. His knowledge and willingness to share it greatly helped the new wine industry in California grow.
The Charles Krug Winery
After Charles Krug passed away, James Moffitt Sr. bought the winery in 1894. Later, in 1943, Robert Mondavi convinced his parents, Cesare and Rosa Mondavi, to buy the winery. It cost them $75,000, and it wasn't active at the time.
Robert Mondavi started his career in wine at the Charles Krug Winery. He worked there until he opened his own famous winery in 1966. Today, the Charles Krug Winery is still in business. It is owned by the family of Robert's younger brother, Peter Mondavi.
