[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 157 (Wednesday, October 11, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1909]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE CUCAMONGA VITICULTURAL DISTRICT

                                 ______


                              HON. JAY KIM

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 11, 1995

  Mr. KIM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the long overdue 
establishment of the Cucamonga Viticultural District, which will be 
celebrated on October 20, 1995.
  The Cucamonga Viticultural District, which encompasses portions of 
the cities of Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, and the community of Guasti, 
was officially established on May 1, 1995 in recognition of the regions 
unique and historic viticultural appeal.
  Viticultural production began in the area in the late 1840's helping 
to establish California as a grape producing, wine-making region. This 
early activity helped to influence other growers and vintners, who 
through their efforts and dedication created a new industry for 
California. Cucamonga Valley viticultural production reached its peak 
almost 100 years later; in the 1940's and 1950's with over 60 wineries 
producing from approximately 35,000 acres. By this time the valley was 
home to the world's largest vineyard--6 thousand continuous acres 
covering Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, and Guasti. In 1962, Cucamonga 
Viticultural District wines accounted for 98 percent of the 9\1/2\ 
million gallons of wine produced in the southern California wine 
district. Although development has replaced many of the vineyards, the 
remaining vintners produce award-winning wines from mature grape 
varieties such as: Zinfandel, Grenache, Mataro, Mission, Muscat of 
Alexandria, Palomino, Golden Chasselas, and others. Additionally 
several tons of the grapes grown in the Cucamonga Viticultural District 
are sold and shipped every season to wineries located in other parts of 
California and across the United States.
  This appellation is truly deserved, signifying the distinct 
characteristics that make the Cucamonga Viticultural District one of a 
kind.

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