The wine industry has lost many notable figures in 2024, but the loss of these three individuals is particularly significant due to their lasting impact on the wine world.

The Legacy of Warren Winiarski

Warren Winiarski, the founder of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, was a pioneer in the California wine industry. He was instrumental in the development of the state’s wine industry, and his legacy continues to be felt today. Winiarski was a true innovator, always pushing the boundaries of what was possible in winemaking.

Wine industry pioneers forge lasting partnership to revolutionize the world of wine.

The two entrepreneurs, who met in the 1970s, forged a lasting partnership that would change the wine industry forever.

A Partnership Born of Passion and Vision

In the 1970s, Eleanor Coppola and Harvey Chaplin met at a dinner party in Los Angeles. The two shared a passion for wine and a vision for the future of the industry. Their initial conversation sparked a lifelong friendship and partnership that would go on to shape the world of wine. Eleanor Coppola, the wife of legendary director Francis Ford Coppola, had a deep understanding of the wine industry, having grown up in a family of winemakers. Harvey Chaplin, on the other hand, had a more unconventional background, having started his career in the spirits and wine distribution business. Despite their different backgrounds, the two shared a common goal: to revolutionize the wine industry and make it more accessible to the masses.

The Inglenook Winery Revival

In 1975, Eleanor and Harvey purchased the Inglenook winery in Napa Valley, California. The winery had been dormant for over 20 years, but the two entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to revive it and make it a leading player in the industry. Under their leadership, Inglenook underwent a major renovation, including the installation of new equipment and the expansion of its vineyards. The winery’s focus shifted from producing high-end, expensive wines to creating more approachable and affordable options. This shift in strategy helped Inglenook become a household name, and its wines were soon being enjoyed by wine lovers around the world.

A Hollywood Connection

Eleanor Coppola’s connection to Hollywood played a significant role in the success of Inglenook.

The two men formed a partnership that would change the way people experience wine in the world.

A Legacy of Wine Excellence

Enrico Scavino, a renowned Italian winemaker, and Jan Shrem, a successful philanthropist and art collector, joined forces to create a wine experience like no other. Their partnership, which began in 2014, aimed to bridge the gap between traditional Italian winemaking techniques and modern wine production methods.

The Birth of Scavino + Shrem

In 2014, Scavino and Shrem founded Scavino + Shrem, a wine company that would go on to revolutionize the way people experience wine.