Development of the Grape Monoculture of Napa County

Grape growing, wine making, and associated tourism now dominate the Napa County economy. This predominance of the grape is a phenomenon of the last quarter century. From the late nineteenth century through the mid-twentieth vine and wine expansion were held back by insect infestation, Prohibition, economic depression, and war. Today, a grape monoculture characterizes large areas formerly given over to a diversified agricultural landscape of pasture, hay, grains, fruits, and nuts. Viticulture has thrived due to shifting consumer tastes, changing technology, local land use decisions, and the region’s established reputation for fine wines, enhanced by federally recognized viticultural appellations.