What You Might Not Know to Look For At an Open House
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From Yao Ming to Jack Nicklaus, a growing number of celebrities are jumping into the wine business. Whether you want to purchase a bottle of Chardonnay from John Legend or visit Mario Andretti’s vineyard, here are some of the top wineries (and wines) with a celebrity connection:
Jack Nicklaus Wines (Terlato Wines International)
Golf superstar and longtime wine connoisseur Jack Nicklaus has found additional success off the green by partnering with Napa-based Terlato Wines International. Jack Nicklaus Wines is a collection of handcrafted, limited-batch wines made by the Terlato winemaking team. Using grapes predominately sourced from the Stags Leap District and Rutherford appellations, the Cabernet Sauvignon contains notes of chocolate, coffee, and red plum. The full-bodied, layered wine has a long finish sure to stand out to anyone looking for a complex wine. The Cabernet is a bright, crisp white wine with tropical and citrus notes and hints of fresh stone fruit and green apple.
John Legend’s LVE (Raymond Vineyards)
In 2015, singer-songwriter John Legend teamed up with Raymond Vineyards to unveil the LVE Collection by John Legend. Striking just the right balance between soulful and sophisticated, the collection of wines includes a Chardonnay, a Cabernet Sauvignon, a red, and two types of rosé. Put on some of Legend’s music, pour some of his wine, and enjoy a romantic evening with your significant other.
Mario Andretti (Andretti Winery)
As one of only two drivers in the world to have won races in Formula One, World Sportscar Championship, IndyCar, and NASCAR, Mario Andretti is a racing legend through-and-through. The retired racer has since turned his attention to Andretti Winery, a 53-acre Napa Valley vineyard and winery he owns with former Kmart CEO Joe Antonini. Modeled after an Italian village, the rolling vineyard showcases Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and other varietals. Stop by for a wine tasting--we guarantee you won’t be able to leave without a bottle of two of your favorite kind.
Yao Ming (Yao Family Wines)
Former NBA All-Star Yao Ming of the Houston Rockets is now moonlighting as a wine purveyor. Ming is the founder and owner of Yao Family Wines, a St. Helena-based winery that releases Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Brut Sparkling Wine, a rosé, and a red blend made of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petite Verdot, and other Bordeaux varietals. In addition to purchasing wines, visitors can sit down for a wine and food sampling in the chic, modern tasting room (which highlights memorabilia from Yao’s basketball career).
If you’re dreaming of owning your own winery (or at least your own Napa Valley property), contact Ginger Martin today. With a comprehensive knowledge of the Napa Valley real estate market, Ginger can answer all of your questions and help you find a home that’s right for you.
