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.

I say to consumers: instead of relying totally on critics, drink what you like and like what you drink.

I know that wine is, above all else, a blessing, a gift of nature, a joy as pure and elemental as the soil and vines and sunshine from which it springs.

Wine to me is all about sharing.

This is what I think is very essential... moderation can be good for you.

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.

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