THE 2O11 NAPA VALLEY GROWER of the YEAR

The Napa Valley Grapegrowers (NVG) has announced that the Phillips family, longtime winegrape growers in Oakville, has been selected as the 2O11 recipient of the prestigious Napa Valley Grower of the Year award.  This is the first time that a family, rather than an individual, has been chosen for this distinction.  Bob Phillips was an early president (1984 to 1986) of the NVG and one of the pioneers of the organization.  He participated in a significant way in many foundational industry successes, from the definition of the Napa Valley’s appellated structure to the protections afforded Napa County’s rich agricultural resources.  His wife, Alex, served on the board of the Napa County Farm Bureau, and was instrumental in the founding years and beyond at the di Rosa Preserve.  Bruce Phillips, their son, recently completed a two-year term as President of the NVG, during which time he led the NVG in the areas of strategic development, marketing and industry partnerships which will carry the organization far into the future.  Bruce’s wife, Heather, is a Napa County Planning Commissioner and chaired the 2OO9 NVG Harvest STOMP event.  Each year, the Past Presidents of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers meet to decide Grower of the Year.  They deliberate over nominations submitted by the NVG membership based on a strong commitment to sustainable practices; recognized leadership in agricultural preservation; dedicated community focus, contributions to the Napa Valley community; and someone who actively promotes Napa’s reputation for the highest quality vineyards.  The Phillips family will be honored May 13 at the NVG Annual Dinner at Chimney Rock Winery.  With over 55O members, the Napa Valley Grapegrowers has played a vital role in strengthening Napa Valley’s reputation as a world-class winegrowing region for over 36 years.  Its mission is to promote and preserve Napa Valley’s world-class vineyards.