Steven Spurrier was the fairy godfather of Napa Valley. A Brit of incredible wealth and determination, he saw the untapped elegance in Napa’s wine region and thrusted it on the world’s stage in typical Spurrier party-like fashion. A blind tasting by elite wine critics pitting French wine royalty against the written-off peasant offerings of Napa Valley. We all know how that story turned out – when Napa earned its crown.
But Spurrier was much more than the Judgment of Paris; he was charming and unfailingly polite, but always focused. Spurrier was determined to make us see the forest through the trees and the incredible wine bounty the world has to offer. Whether it was through his retail establishments, wine institute, master classes, mentorships, reviews, publications, or his own vineyard, Spurrier encouraged us all to be open with our palettes and our minds.
While his adventures and ventures had ups and downs, there was one constant in his pursuits – enjoy the ride.
Spurrier left us this week in his battle with cancer, but his influence and unwavering passion will live on.
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