Makers' Stories
Beth Weber Novak
— I see Spottswoode as a part of several important eras in the history of Napa Valley.
If you could open a bottle of your wine and share it with any three people (living or not), who would they be?
On the environmental side, David Brower, who founded the Sierra Club, and/or Edward Abbey would be amazing. On the acting side, Cary Grant was terribly handsome in his youth – as was Christopher Plummer. On the athletic side, I think it would be great to talk with Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf.
How did you get started in the wine business?
After graduating from UCLA, I joined a wine brokerage that represented an amazing list of wineries, among them Joseph Phelps, Caymus, Saintsbury and Pine Ridge. At the time, the wine scene in the Bay Area was really getting going, with restaurants like Chez Panisse, Santa Fe Grill and Stars helping to build awareness. This was also when Liquor Barn was just starting up. It was an exciting time to get involved.
Name a Napa Valley vintner who has influenced you and briefly explain why.
There are so many … but Jack Davies, the founder of Schramsberg Vineyards, was very kind to me, and offered guidance and showed an interest in my career.
Est. 1982
Spottswoode Estate Vineyard & Winery
03
The Makers