The Grapes of Conquest

Decolonize Your Palate with This Multiracial Labor Saga

Written byJulia Ornelas-Higdon

Narrated byCynthia Wallace

Length9h40m

Release dateJuly 16, 2025

GenreBusiness & Careers, History, Americas

Languageenglish

★★★★★ 5.0 (1,106 ratings)

Listen Free on Audible

Free with Audible trial. Cancel anytime.

Available Worldwide

Listen Free

Listen to a Sample

Hear Cynthia Wallace's narration on Audible.

Play Sample on Audible

Quick Facts

Author	Julia Ornelas-Higdon
Narrator	Cynthia Wallace
Runtime	9h40m
Published	July 16, 2025
Rating	★★★★★ 5.0 / 5 (1,106 ratings)
Categories	Business & Careers, History, Americas, United States, State & Local
Format	Audiobook (Digital)
Platform	Audible

Featured Audiobooks

Handpicked listeners' favorites this week

Twisted Pawn

by L. J. Shen

★★★★☆ 4.8

The Eye of the Bedlam Bride

by Matt Dinniman

★★★★☆ 4.9

Remarkably Bright Creatures

by Shelby Van Pelt

★★★★☆ 4.8

About This Audiobook

Step into the untold stories of California’s wine industry in ‘The Grapes of Conquest,’ where Julia Ornelas-Higdon masterfully excavates the forgotten voices of working-class and multiracial laborers. Cynthia Wallace’s narration is both powerful and nuanced, bringing to life a vivid narrative that challenges conventional histories. This audiobook isn’t just a journey through time; it’s an eye-opening exploration of the roots of California’s most prestigious drink, revealing the true social fabric beneath its elegant facade.

Tags: multiraciallabor historywine industrydecolonizationCalifornia

Why Listen to The Grapes of Conquest?

Expert narration by Cynthia Wallace brings every character and scene to life across 9h40m of immersive audio.
Bestseller-quality story from Julia Ornelas-Higdon, rated 5.0 stars by 1,106 listeners.
Free with your Audible trial — keep the audiobook forever even if you cancel.
Perfect for commutes, workouts, and relaxation. Listen anywhere, anytime.

Start Listening Free

Editor's Review ★★★★★

AudioBook Atlas

Cynthia Wallace’s voice is the heart and soul of this audiobook. Her delivery is both passionate and restrained, capturing the emotional weight of the narrative with remarkable subtlety. The story unfolds at a deliberate pace that allows listeners to immerse themselves fully in the lives of the characters. Ornelas-Higdon’s writing isn’t just informative; it’s deeply personal and evocative, painting a picture that is both heartbreaking and inspiring. However, some sections can feel overly academic, which might detract from the flow for those seeking more engaging storytelling. Nonetheless, ‘The Grapes of Conquest’ is an essential listen for anyone interested in the complex history and social dynamics behind California’s wine industry.

Download: The Grapes of Conquest

Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Free Download on Audible USA

The Grapes of Conquest by Julia Ornelas-Higdon is an immersive listening experience. Performed by Cynthia Wallace with a runtime of 9h40m, you can start with a free trial that you can cancel at any time. The audiobook remains yours forever, even if you end the trial.