Wine has been with us since the beginning of civilization. It is the temperate, civilized, sacred, romantic mealtime beverage recommended in the Bible. Wine has been praised for centuries by statesmen, philosophers, poets, and scholars. Wine in moderation is an integral part of our culture, heritage and gracious way of life.

There are a lot of people with a lot of money, and I'm amazed they don't understand what a great pleasure it can be to give.

Later, at Stanford University, I thought I'd become a lawyer or businessman, but my father came to me and said he thought there was a big future in the fine-wine business.

As I traveled the world over, I traveled everywhere, and I learned so much.

My path was simple: Follow your passion. Pour in your heart and soul. Settle for nothing less than excellence. And with enough hard work and faith in yourself, you can realize your dream.

My mother served me wine and water from the time I was 3 years old.

I always knew that food and wine were vital, with my mother being Italian and a good cook.