May 17, 1784: Thomas Jefferson was appointed by the confederation Congress to travel to France, later becoming the senior Minister of the United States in France. He arrived in France onboard a merchant ship on July 5, 1784. He explored food, music, architecture, and wine. In 1787, he visited the Bourgogne wine region, and his influence led to the Whitehouse opening its doors to Bourgogne wine.

May 17, 1955: On this day, María de La Luz Robledo was born. She is the founder of Robledo Family Winery alongside her husband Reynaldo Robledo Sr. Her father was a farmer, and her mother was a cook. Their respective passions led her to discovering her own love for cuisine and agriculture, and she has worked with her husband on both pursuits since emigrating from Mexico in 1972.

May 17, 1983: On this day, Merritt Island AVA was established. The island is located in Yolo County, California, and is host to Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc grapes which are largely put into wine blends.

May 17, 1985: Northern Sonoma AVA was established. This AVA is expansive, encompassing several other AVAs, including Russian River Valley, Chalk Hill, Dry Creek Valley, Knights Valley, Green Valley, and Alexander Valley. The lake and Mendocino County form the AVA’s boundaries. The AVA was legally recognized on 17 May 1985.

May 17, 1990: Falcon Crest was an American soap opera that ran on CBS for nine seasons. The show followed the clashes between two fictional families in the California wine industry.

May 17, 2022: This day is National Pinot Grigio Day in the United States. This day honors the remarkable white wine and its reputation for being a suitable pairing with many kinds of food.

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