GRAPE CULTURE AND WINE-MAKING IN CALIFORNIA: A Practical Manual for the Grape-Grower and Wine-Maker. de Husmann, George. (1827-1902) - 1888

San Francisco: Payot, Upham & Co., 1888. First edition. Minor wear to covers, 2 signatures sprung but still firmly sewn, else abour very good. Original brown cloth with gilt title and decoration, small octavo, 380 pp. Illustrated.

An important wine book in the history of viticulture in California and also quite scarce. Unlike Husmann's other viticultural manuals, this title was never reprinted. Husmann relocated from Missouri to California's Napa Valley in 1883 to continue his active career as a viticulturist. He predicted that California had a great future as a wine producing region. An important book that is increasingly scarce. With ownership inscription on title page of "R. Newman (?), Vina, Tehama Co. Cal." In the 1880s Vina was the site of Leland Stanford's Great Vina Ranch. At 3800+ acres planted in grapes it was then called the largest vinyard in the world.Amerine & Borg 1859; Gabler (2nd ed.) 24660.