In 1839 the grapes were planted in Napa Valley by George Yount. Early grape-growing pioneers began establishing their wineries in the local region roughly 20 years later. Just over the hill in Sonoma County, Buena Vista Winery became the first established commercial winery in all of California in 1857. Charles Krug founded the first commercial winery in Napa Valley in 1861. To follow, Beringer Vineyards in 1876 and Inglenook in 1879.
These wineries paved the way for future winegrowers and undoubtedly elevated Napa Valley as a world-class wine-growing region. They made a lasting impact on the local wine-growing community and the international world of wine. In essence, these founders helped garner the clout and reputation for which Napa wines are known today.