Travel Essays · Chapter
Napa Wine explained
The author reflects on the state of Californian wine-making, comparing it to the great European traditions and lamenting the decline of classic vineyards.
What happens
The author reflects on the state of Californian wine-making, comparing it to the great European traditions and lamenting the decline of classic vineyards. He visits two Napa Valley vineyards—Mr. Schram's and Mr. McEckron's—describing the rugged landscape, the experimental nature of the industry, and the character of the vintners. The chapter meditates on the transience of human endeavor in a land of constant movement and change.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This passage marks the dramatic climax because it reverses the narrator’s initial expectation of confrontation…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Travel and Discovery
The author explores the nascent wine country of California, discovering new tastes and the pioneering spirit of its vintners.
- Art and the Artistic Life
Wine is portrayed as bottled poetry, a product of nature's artistry and human craft, with the vintner as a kind of artist.
- Mortality and the Passage of Time
The decline of ancient European vineyards and the transient, experimental nature of California's wine industry evoke a sense of impermanence and change.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Schram
The jolly, prosperous vintner of the oldest vineyard in Napa Valley, who began as a penniless barber and now produces Schramberger wines with pride.
- Mr. McEckron
A bachelor vintner from Greenock, recently started in the wine business, with young vines and a hopeful demeanor.
- Fanny
Entertained by Mrs. Schram in the verandah while the author tasted wines in the cellar.
Key passages
“The smack of Californian earth shall linger on the palate of your grandson.”
The unique flavor of California's soil will be tasted by future generations.
Expresses hope for the lasting quality of Californian wine.
“Men move eternally, still chasing Fortune; and, fortune found, still wander.”
People are always on the move, pursuing wealth, and even after finding it, they continue to roam.
Reflects on the restless, transient nature of life in California.
“Wine in California is still in the experimental stage; and when you taste a vintage, grave economical questions are involved.”
California wine-making is still experimental, so tasting a vintage raises serious economic considerations.
Highlights the speculative and pioneering aspect of the industry.
