Photo by Joel Ross Studios
a message from tina jones
In my early years in the wine business , I recall reading and hearing about the Napa Valley . What made it seem so captivating and wonderful ? I remember thinking that Napa felt so far away and exclusive .
After my very first visit , I was hooked . Napa is a magical place , but surprisingly accessible . Envision driving a short distance from the city streets of San Francisco , and suddenly vineyard upon vineyard are within arm ’ s reach . As you enter Napa County , and the 15-mile stretch of Hwy 29 , the real Napa Valley unfolds , as hundreds of highly acclaimed wineries greet you with signs : “ Tasting Room – Open Daily from 10 – 4 .” I believe Napa Valley is the most consumer-friendly wine tasting region in the world . One visit invites another , and another , to explore beyond that first taste .
Napa brings together all that is sensual and extravagant about visiting wine country . My very favourite Napa experiences include the undiscovered wineries off the beaten track ; the four-hour visits with impromptu picnics that beckon you to stay the entire day ; the marathon gastronomic dinners with wines we never dreamed we ’ d taste ; the ultimate in luxurious five-star resorts ; and scenery and climate that takes your breath away . Each time we are in Napa we vow to come back soon . Somehow , it is never soon enough .
Join us in celebrating Napa . We are incredibly fortunate to include a once-in-a-lifetime interview with Michel Rolland courtesy of my sister , Lia Banville . Michel Rolland is positively the most intriguing figure in the wine world today , and the Napa wineries he represents are the who ’ s who of the finest wine producers to grace the planet . It is an immense privilege to present our Napa Valley issue to you , our Banville & Jones family .
Salut !
10 www . banvilleandjones . com