The Cultivation of The Native Grape, and Manufacture of American Wines

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

20917

Title

The Cultivation of The Native Grape, and Manufacture of American Wines

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

George Husmann's practical guide advocates for American native grapes and accessible wine-making, urging farmers to reject costly Eastern methods in favor of hardy varieties suited to the West. Written for the 'sturdy sons of toil,' this manual offers plain advice on vineyard management, disease prevention, and fermentation techniques to produce wholesome wine for the common laborer.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'The Cultivation of The Native Grape, and Manufacture of American Wines,' George Husmann addresses aspiring vintners, particularly those in the American West, with a focus on practicality and economic viability. Husmann argues that existing literature is too expensive and theoretical for the working farmer, aiming instead to provide 'plain talk' from a fellow laborer who rose from humble beginnings. The book dedicates itself to American grape growers, emphasizing that the continent is destined to become the world's greatest wine-producing region. The text begins by recounting the legend of Vinland to foreshadow America's potential as a 'Wineland,' then traces the history of grape culture in the colonies. Husmann critiques harmful practices common in Eastern vineyards, such as removing leaves to hasten ripening or 'cutting in' young growth in August, which he argues stunts vines and invites frost damage. He advocates for letting canes ramble to form a natural roof that shades fruit and retains moisture. A significant portion of the work is dedicated to 'Manuring the Vine,' where Husmann recommends fresh surface soil from woods over stable-yard manure or slops, which he claims cause rank growth and rot. He details the necessity of thinning fruit to ensure perfection and describes renewing old vines through layering. The author provides specific instructions on gathering fruit for market versus wine, noting that wine quality depends on fully ripened fruit where water evaporates and sugar concentrates. Husmann categorizes grape varieties into five classes based on their suitability for American climates. He champions the Concord, Norton's Virginia, and Herbemont as hardy, productive, and high-quality options, contrasting them with the failing Catawba. He includes detailed descriptions and plate references for varieties like the Hartford Prolific and Delaware. The book also covers wine-making apparatus, fermentation processes, and remedies for wine diseases. The text is heavily supported by statistics and financial data. Husmann presents cost analyses for establishing vineyards, showing that while initial costs are high, profits can be substantial if the right varieties are chosen. He cites specific yields from vineyards owned by Michael Poeschel and William Poeschel, demonstrating how Norton's Virginia and Concord outperformed Catawba in Missouri's climate. He refutes claims that grape-growing is unprofitable by presenting accounts from Cincinnati horticulturalists, showing net profits exceeding $2,000 per acre for successful operations. Husmann concludes by urging a shift toward free soil and intelligent labor, warning against the influence of slavery on agricultural progress.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Viticulture
• Wine Making