5/19/2008 - Napa Valley, CA-On May 16, we lost one of the most important leaders in the world of wine, Robert Mondavi.
As one of the original founders of the non-profit trade association, Napa Valley Vintners (NVV) in 1944, Mr. Mondavi also served as president of the board in 1954, 1958, 1968 and 1969. He was also the leader of the effort to start Auction Napa Valley, which has become the most successful charity wine auction in the world. Remembering what he taught us is especially poignant now, on the eve of Auction Napa Valley. His warm and giving spirit will live on through the event.
One of the many important lessons Mr. Mondavi taught us: to always be there to help a neighbor, a friend, our community or beyond. He was one of the most kind and generous people we've ever known. He set the standard by which all Napa Valley vintners strive to operate: making wines that are among the best in the world and using their resultant status to raise money to support charitable causes.
Plans to celebrate this life are in the works, and today, the NVV created an online tribute album on its public website- www.napavintners.com-where wine lovers from anywhere in the world may post a remembrance. We invite the public to share their thoughts or favorite memories of vintner Robert Mondavi.
"Wine to me is passion. It's family and friends. It's warmth of heart and generosity of spirit. Wine is art. It's culture. It's the essence of civilization and the Art of Living…When I pour a glass of truly fine wine, when I hold it up to the light and admire its color, when I raise it to my nose and savor its bouquet and essence, I know that wine is, above all else, a blessing, a gift of nature, a joy as pure and elemental as the soil and vines and sunshine from which it springs." Robert Mondavi, "Harvests of Joy"
About the NVV
Now in our seventh decade, the Napa Valley Vintners (NVV) non-profit trade association is the sole organization responsible for promoting and protecting the Napa Valley Appellation as a winegrowing region second to none in the world. Respect for our history reinforces our commitment to the preservation and enhancement of the Valley's land, wine, and community for future generations. We address the shared interests of our more than 300 member wineries and aspire to be the essential organization for all Napa Valley vintners.
Contact: Terry Hall
Communications Director
Napa Valley Vintners
Direct 707.968.4217
thall@napavintners.com
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Contact: Terry Hall, Communications Director 707-968-4217 thall@napavintners.com
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