The Santa Clara Valley was the first premier wine production region in California. The valley's history of winemaking dates back to 1777, when Spanish padres founded Mission Santa Clara and planted their grape cuttings in order to make wine for religious purposes. Immigrants from around the world, following the American dream, were soon lured to the Santa Clara Valley for its rich soil and ideal growing climate. These immigrants brought centuries of winemaking traditions, passed down through the generations.