Dear Colleagues and Friends,

As summer kicks off, BRAND Napa Valley received tremendous scores from the latest issue of Wine Spectator. Our 2012 BRAND Proprietary Blend was rated at 96 points while our 2012 BRIO Cabernet Sauvignon attained a rating of 95 points. Both were also categorized in Wine Spectator’s “Hot Wines” category, further affirming our dedication to quality. News of the exciting ratings follows the hiring of Elizabeth Vianello as BRAND Napa Valley’s new Director. As an actual native of the Napa Valley, Vianello will use her vast experience in the industry to lead day-to-day operations alongside Ed Fitts and Deb Whitman.

In recent times, BRAND Napa Valley has had a presence in a multitude of events benefitting non-profit organizations and growing the marque across the country. For the second year in a row, the record amount of money raised at the Premiere Napa Valley Auction was broken as more than $6 million was accumulated. Topping the lot of the auction was a five-case lot of 2013 Brand Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon which auctioned for $115,000. The money raised at the 2015 Premiere Napa Valley Auction provides support for the activities of the Napa Valley Vintners organization throughout the year. Our wine was also relished by the attendees of the Southwest Florida Wine and Food Fest. The two-day fundraiser mainly took place at the Miromar Lakes Beach Club as vintner dinners were cultivated by established chefs on the first night. The second night hosted a grand tasting and an auction, raising $3.353 million for various Florida universities and children’s charities including Golisano Children's Hospital, Florida Southwestern State College and Florida Gulf Coast University. BRAND Napa Valley’s presence was also felt at the 28th annual Star Chefs and Vintners Gala as our wine was served alongside the work of prestigious chefs such as Tyler Florence and Nancy Oakes. The event also raised $2.63 million, ensuring Meals On Wheels of San Francisco the capacity to provide over 500,000 meals to homebound seniors. BRAND Napa Valley also took part in events such as the Atlanta High Museum Auction and the Pebble Beach Food & Wine. These events presented our various wines and cabernets to those participating in auctions and galas that raise money for a plethora of causes.

The trend of showcasing the quality of our wine and staying active in philanthropy will continue as BRAND Napa Valley will be involved in the V Foundation Wine Celebration occurring for the 17 th time from August 6 to August 9. This world-class wine auction and event plays a key role in raising funds for the V Foundation’s cancer research initiatives. BRAND Napa Valley’s wine will be served along with multi-course gourmet meals and winery vintners developed by renowned restaurateurs and chefs. Following BRAND Napa Valley’s involvement at the V Foundation Wine Celebration, our wine will be paired with the work of award-winning chefs such as Michael Tusk at the Blackberry Farm California Roots almanac. Participants of this event will partake in group meals, wine tasting presentations, and cooking demonstrations led by Michael Tusk and Cassidee Dabney. This event will take place at the Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee and will last from November 1 to November 4. Reservations to this experience can be made at this link: http://www.blackberryfarm.com/event/california-roots

The recently released ratings for our 2012 BRAND Proprietary Blend and 2012 BRIO Cabernet Sauvignon, scoring 96 points and 95 points, respectively, creates excitement for its future release to the public. These highly regarded wines will be made available for pre-release purchase later this fall.

With excitement, BRAND Napa Valley looks forward to shipping the 2012 BRAND Cabernet Sauvignon to purchasers in October 2015, as weather permits. As an organization, we are elated continue to offer this quality wine to you as we raise a glass together!