The History of Our Favorite Drink

Friday evening at the Altadena Library, Stuart Byles, author of Los Angeles Wine: A History from the Mission Era to the Present (American Palate), gave a lecture on the wine history of Los Angeles.

Byles explained that for most of the 19th century “California wine meant Los Angeles wine.”

“In 1850, when California became a state,” said Byles, “there were perhaps maybe six to eight vineyards, or wineries, in the whole bay area. In Los Angeles, there were over 100.”

He brought out copies of his book for signing and purchasing and after the lecture guests who had signed up for the event were able to partake in a wine tasting.

“I’m looking forward to reading Mr. Byles’ book,” said Emily Stevenson, holding an autographed copy. Stevenson said the lecture was very interesting and she did not know that prohibition had closed down most wineries in Los Angeles.

For those who missed the event, Byles’ book is available for purchase from Amazon. For more information on the Altadena Library and future events, please visit their website at www.altadenalibrary.org.