Larry Hyde
INTRIGUING GROWER Known for his farming passion and innovative farming techniques, Larry Hyde of Hyde Vineyards has made Napa Valley his home for more than 40 years. The influential grower knew that grape growing was his calling when he signed up for his first...
Ken Frank
INTRIGUING CHEF Chef Ken Frank opened the first La Toque on the Sunset Strip at age 23. After a 14-year run, and a succession of other high- profile culinary positions, he heeded the call of wine country and moved north to open a new La Toque in Rutherford in 1998...
Ali and Ben Koenig
INTRIGUING COUPLE To say that Ben and Ali Koenig pivoted their local business in response to COVID-19 is an understatement. The Heritage Eats founders, in an attempt to remain viable, found themselves transforming their fast-casual Napa restaurant into a variety ...
Yannick Rousseau
INTRIGUING WINEMAKER Yannick Rousseau’s winemaking philosophy and style are old school. His wines – both his high-end Y. Rousseau label wines and the more approachable Son of a Butcher (SOB) – are made with passion, consistency, and meticulous care....
Sam Peters
INTRIGUING MARKETER In his role as executive director for three Napa Valley wine associations (Howell Mountain Vintners & Growers Association, Mount Veeder Appellation Council, and Atlas Peak Appellation Association) Sam Peters represents and markets each’s...
Rodger Collinson
INTRIGUING COMMUNITY SUPPORTER Napa firefighter/paramedic Rodger Collinson loves food. When on duty, he is often the crew appointed firehouse chef. When off duty, he’s combing the Napa Valley for new restaurants and undiscovered eats. “I’m...
Matt Stamp
INTRIGUING RESTAURANTEUR Operating a restaurant is a challenge in the best of times. In the worst of times, it takes commitment beyond the norm. Few demonstrate that commitment better than Matt Stamp, Partner at downtown Napa’s Compline. The Master...
Al James
INTRIGUING MUSICIAN Al James straddles two counties, playing venues throughout both Napa and Monterey. The singer/songwriter got a foothold in wine country in 2014 and has played his diverse portfolio of music, focusing on jazz and blues, in nearly...
