In Part 2 of this conversation, Damian Bacich talks with wine historian Kevin Ferguson, descendant of the Gemello Winery family, about the dramatic rise of California wine, the legendary 1976 Judgment of Paris, and the family stories that connect Silicon Valley, Napa Valley, and Italian immigrant winemakers.

They also explore how Prohibition, entrepreneurship, and even Bank of America played unexpected roles in California's wine history. Whether you're interested in California history, wine, or remarkable family stories, this episode offers a fascinating look behind one of the state's greatest success stories.

Kevin's Substack: https://gemello.substack.com/

Chapters

00:00 – A French judge mistakes Napa wine for French
00:49 – California wine's low point in the 1960s
03:41 – From 350 wineries to nearly 4,800
04:11 – The Gemello family's survival and real estate strategy
08:11 – California wines before the Judgment of Paris
10:04 – How the Judgment of Paris came together
14:44 – The shocking tasting results that changed history
15:46 – How the victory inspired a new generation of winemakers
22:26 – Steven Spurrier's remarkable wine shop story
26:06 – Why the Judgment of Paris became California's great underdog story
27:52 – Italian immigrants, Bank of America, and California agriculture
31:46 – Final reflections and Kevin Ferguson's upcoming book

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In the first part of my conversation with author Kevin Ferguson, we explore the rich history of California wine, tracing its roots from Italian immigrants through the challenges of Prohibition to the pivotal Judgment of Paris in 1976.

Kevin delves into his family's legacy, highlighting how early 20th-century winemakers navigated legal loopholes and economic shifts to establish California as a leading wine region.

This episode provides insights into the evolution of winemaking practices, the influence of figures like Paul Masson, and the resilience required to thrive in a changing industry.

Join us to understand the historical context and enduring impact of these developments on the global wine landscape.

00:00 - Introduction.
00:31 - California's wine history.
01:32 - Judgment of Paris explained.
02:18 - Kevin's family background.
03:40 - Early winemaking challenges.
05:52 - Paul Masson's influence.
10:09 - Settling in California.
15:12 - Impact of Prohibition.
18:36 - Loopholes in the law.
28:34 - Repeal and resurgence of wineries.

Kevin's Substack: https://gemello.substack.com/

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Learn more about the California Frontier Project:

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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net

In part 2 of our interview, we explore the transformative period of US occupation and the subsequent transition to statehood, focusing on the California Constitution drafted in 1849 and ratified in 1850. Dr. Jones provides a deep dive into the cultural and social dynamics of the time, highlighting the contributions and challenges faced by these pioneering communities.

We discuss the development of africancalifornios.org, a dedicated platform aimed at preserving and sharing this rich heritage. The conversation also uncovers the intriguing story behind California's name, believed to be inspired by an African queen, Califia, from a historical novel. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the diverse influences that have shaped California's history.

To learn more: https://www.africancalifornios.org/home

• 00:10 Introduction to the Interview
• 01:12 US Occupation and Statehood
• 02:47 California Constitution
• 05:30 Cultural and Social Dynamics
• 10:30 Project Development: africancalifornios.org
• 33:52 California's Name Origin

Send a Comment.

Support the show

Give a one-time donation

Learn more about the California Frontier Project:

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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net