332 



Transactions of the 



tariff, for the importation of foreign wines amounts only to nine or ten 

 millions annually. A broader market is required than would result from 

 driving foreign wines away, and that market must be made in our own 

 country, the population of which would be infinitely benefited, both 

 morally and physically, by the consumption annually of thirt}' millions 

 gallons of pure dry wines. The problem then is, how to teach Ameri- 

 cans to drink wine; and on it hinges not only the future of a vast 

 interest in California, but the welfare of a great nation. 



The exports of native wine and brandy from January first to June 

 thirtieth of the current year, are: 



Since the first of July the export demand has fallen off as is usual at 

 this season. There are many orders in hand, however, to go forward 

 about September first, and a fair demand during the balance of the year 

 is anticipated. 



The local trade was somewhat dull during the quarter under review, 

 but has rapidly increased during the past month, and for the year will 

 probably equal in volume the trade of eighteen hundred and seventy- 

 three. 



Dry wines, both white aud red, continue in ample supply, the reds 

 being principally of last year's growth; while there is greater abund- 

 ance of whites of the growth of eighteen hundred and seventy-two, 

 and earlier vintages. Last year's sweet wines came freely to hand, and 

 are for the most part in good shipping order. Prices for all kinds have 

 ruled steady and firm throughout the year at the quotations below. 

 Brandy is in light supply; the demand small and unsettled. Cooper- 

 age is lower than might be expected in the face of a large vintage and 

 light supply of staves. New casks (thin staves) are worth nine cents 

 per gallon; full staves, ten cents for Clear Lake, and ten cents and 

 three quarters to eleven for Eastern oak. Large numbers of old casks 

 (mostly reshipped from New York) have been placed at four to seven 

 cents per gallon. 



The prices current for wines, of good shipping quality, in round lots, 

 delivered free on board ship or rail (casks included): 



