Historical Marker · No. 563
Charles Krug Winery
St. Helena, Napa County · California
Erected by California State Park Commission, California Historical Society and Napa County Historical Society, 1957
The bronze hands Charles Krug two firsts, and each came partly through someone else. The 1858 vintage was made on commission for John Patchett, whom the Napa County Historical Society counts as the county's first commercial winemaker, pressed at Napa in a cider press that had been Agoston Haraszthy's. The 540 acres here were the dowry of Carolina Bale, married to Krug in December 1860, cut from her father's grant. And the oldest operating winery of 1957 had been standing idle when the Mondavi family bought it in 1943.
What the plaque says
Charles Krug Winery Founded in 1861 by Charles Krug (1825-1892), this is the oldest operating winery in Napa Valley. The pioneer wine maker of this world famous wine region, Krug made the first commercial wine in Napa County in 1858, at Napa. Registered Historical Landmark No.563 Plaque placed by California State Park Commission in cooperation with the California Historical Society and Napa County Historical Society. October 5, 1957
Where it stands
38.51729, -122.48887 · Directions
More markers nearby
- Beringer Brothers Winery — 0.6 mi
- Old Bale Mill — 2.0 mi
- Schramsberg — 3.4 mi
- Site of Kelsey House, Calistoga — 5.4 mi