It is impossible to study the history of wine country in the Sierra Foothills and the Delta without knowledge of the broader economic forces that have shaped the region since the mid-nineteenth century.

Years Before the Gold Rush

Until the Gold Rush, Stockton and Sacramento were natural deep water ports. The subsequent mining during the Gold Rush filled the riverbeds with debris. These cities are still deep water ports, but only because a path through the Delta is dredged.

The early economy revolved around the transport of goods to and from these regional centers. However, the population was relatively small and did not support a significant wine industry.

The Independent Miner: Impact on Wine Country

On January 24, 1848, Ja The History of Wine Country in the Sierra Foothills and the Delta Recipe

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Supreme Burgers

by News Canada

2 pounds ground chuck

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

2 tablespoons shallots, minced

11/2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms

1/4 cup Jack Daniel's Whiskey

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 large tomato, chopped

2 tablespoons minced parsley

1/4 teaspoon basil

1 teaspoon salt

Combine ground chuck, salt, pepper and 1/4 cup cream. Shape into six patties. In large skillet, add oil and pan-broil over medium heat until desired degree of doneness. Remove to heated platter. Keep in warm oven while preparing sauce. Cook shallots and mushrooms in pan drippings until tender. Add remaining ingredients and cook for several minutes. Pour sauce over patties.

Makes 6 servings. Supreme Burgers Recipe

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Easy to Make Guacamole Dip

by Jan Kovarik

Easy to Make Guacamole!

You can make guacamole that people will rave about! It’s easy, and you don’t need any fancy kitchen utensils or appliances.

What You’ll Need To Have Ready

Assemble the following kitchen items: Cutting board Sharp knife A shallow-lipped dish or bowl, preferably with a flat bottom A potato masher, hand-held is better than an electric whipper

Ingredients (for one batch, feeds 2-4 people as a side dish or dip for chips): 2 Haas avocados* Fresh cilantro (usually comes in a small bunch or plastic bag in the produce area) 2 Roma tomatoes 2 fresh limes (not lime juice) Sour Cream (fat-free is OK) 1 package of Guacamole seasoning (Schilling, McCormick, or La Easy to Make Guacamole Dip Recipe

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