When did you first become interested in wine? (When was your first taste? How was the experience?)
Years ago when I was stationed in the San Francisco area in the Coast Guard, my friends and I would enjoy wine on our surfing trips to Santa Cruz. It became part of the experience. Later, I learned a lot about wines of the world, and especially thoses from California, through The Vintners' Club tastings in San Francisco.

What brought you into the wine business?
After the Coast Guard, I stayed in San Francisco to attend college and met my wife, Lynn. We would drive up to Napa Valley on many weekends. This was in the late '60s when there were only a handful of wineries in the Valley. I became determined to get involved with the wine business in some capacity. Eventually, I worked in vineyard investment and management, which led to joining The Hess Collection on Mt. Veeder as general manager. After ten years of developing mountain vineyards and the winery, I decided to start my own brand in the early '90s.

Do you have a favorite varietal or region?
Cabernet Sauvignon of course! Especially Cabs from hillside vineyards. Mt. Veeder is my favorite Napa Valley appellation.

If you don't order wine at a restaurant or bar, which beverage do you choose?
If I don't see a wine of interest on the list, I go with a beer (better to have a good beer than a bad wine).

What's your least favorite drink?
Vodka, vodka and vodka (no matter what the flavor!)

What's your best wine-drinking memory? What was the occasion?
Having a 1967 Georges de Latour Cabernet Sauvignon made by the incredible Andre Tchelistcheff at Beaulieu Vineyard. This gorgeous wine was served by a friend -- who also made a great dinner that lived up to the wine.

What is the first thing someone learning about wine should know?
Trust your own palate and don't be intimidated by what others may think or how much (or little) you've might have learned about wines. You'll enjoy the wine more and learn as you go.

What are some of your favorite food and wine pairings?
Our Durell Chardonnay from Sonoma with raw oysters or shrimp and endive salad. Affinity (Bordeaux-style Cabernet blend) with grilled salmon or pork tenderloin. Mt. Veeder Cab with duck breast or mushroom risotto. Howell Mountain Cab with a rare rib-eye steak, and Howell Mountain Zinfandel with baby-back pork ribs or beef short ribs.

What are some of the benefits of drinking wine?
Wine adds to the pleasure of being with good friends and family and enjoying a nice meal. Wine is both exciting and relaxing -- and gives an added dimension to an event, whether formal or informal. Plus, wine has important heart-healthy benefits!

What wines should no home be without?
Any wines that suit your individual palate and that you like to share with friends.