World’s largest database of historic vines nears 9,500 vineyards

The Old Vine Registry, the world’s largest database of landmark vineyards, is approaching 9,500 listings, nearing its goal of 10,000 vineyards by June 2027.

In 2010, wine critic Jancis Robinson and writer Tamlyn Currin began compiling a list of old vineyards, which launched as a crowdsourced database in 2023.

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Searchable by country, region, vineyard name, grape variety and more, the registry’s website provides a remarkable look at many of the world’s most venerable vines.

Over the last 12 months, the database has seen a significant surge in entries and now encompasses 42 countries. Data from leading wine importers like Skurnik Wines, Becky Wasserman & Co., Winebow and others has significantly expanded the inclusion of vineyards from several European regions, including France.

The Heritage Vine Hunt Contest, a global initiative that encourages the public to document historic vineyards, has also helped expand the catalog.

To qualify for the registry, a vineyard must be at least 35 years old, which is the average age at which commercial vineyards are ripped out and replanted.

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As of this writing, the website lists 186 vineyards in Sonoma County, with the 147-year-old Kunde Century Vines vineyard the eldest of the lot. But at 146 years old, both Martinelli Road (Banfield) Vineyard in the Russian River Valley and Old Hill Ranch in Sonoma Valley are close behind.

To view the registry or enter the Heritage Vine Hunt Contest, visit oldvineyregistry.org

You can reach Wine Reporter Sarah Doyle at 707-521-5478 or sarah.doyle@pressdemocrat.com. Follow Sarah on Instagram at @whiskymuse.