Concord Grapes Small Journal

The following description appears on the inside cover of your small journal.

DESCRIPTION

Fossil records reveal that the genus Vitus dates back to the Tertiary Period, a time when there was only a single land mass on earth. Archeological evidence also reveals that the making of wine occurred as early as 3500 BC. It is interesting to note that when the Eastern and Western continents separated, Vitus developed along two very different paths. Europe has a rich history of viticulture and wine, while in North America, where grapes were much more abundant, there is no evidence of wine-making until the Spanish explorers in the 1500’s set up outposts and wine was needed for religious rituals. There is evidence that Native Americans grew grapes in their gardens along with their squash, corn, and beans.

artwork and text by Steve Sierigk