June 30, 2004

Raise A Glass To Thomas Jefferson

While Jefferson is known for authoring the Declaration of Independence, serving as our third president, and founding the University of Virginia, his contributions to wine remain some of his most enduring and overlooked legacies.

He tirelessly promoted wine cultivation and appreciation and worked as an advocate for farmers with vineyards. He also acted as a wine consultant for several presidents, including Washington, Madison, and Monroe, even after his retirement from public life in 1809. And although he did not see wine production flourish in North America during his lifetime, many attribute the eventual success of this country’s wine industry to Jefferson. He has been described as “the greatest patron of wine and winegrowing that this country has yet had,” according to the Thomas Jefferson Foundation.

So remember, when spending time with friends and family this Fourth of July, take a moment to appreciate how far wine has come since 1776, thanks in part to Thomas Jefferson, the man who not only made it possible for you to celebrate this great day, but also to enjoy the wonderful aromas and flavors in your glass.

Read the rest here.

Posted by Ithildin at June 30, 2004 5:46 PM | PROCURE FINE OLD WORLD ABSINTHE