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 brother and I had saved $15,000 by working many years nailing fruit crates together.

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

Whether I played marbles, whether I played football or slam anything else, I wanted to excel.

I know of no one who has been more helpful to the industry. His teachings and consultations internationally, without doubt, improved the quality of winemaking in our country. He was a friend to everyone interested in fine wine.

America was built on the can-do spirit and will continue to thrive on the can-do spirit.

Ever since I was a child, I wanted to excel in everything.