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