Years ago, I did a profile of Robert Mondavi as part of my MBA. What an amazing man! Wine drinkers will recognize that name -- one of the most influential people ever in the California wine industry. When I ran across his autobiography Harvests of Joy, I had to find out more.
It's enlightening to see how much difference one person can make. He didn't do it all by himself, but nobody can deny that he was a major force for change. Napa and California (and possibly all of the US wine industry) would not be what it is now without Robert Mondavi. And to think he started his own winery at the age of 52, after being kicked out of the family business. (Yes, all the stories are told in the book!) There's no such thing as starting too late! It certainly gives ME hope. 
If you're thinking of visiting Napa, it's also fun to read about how Napa was a few decades ago. My, how things have changed. Not the sleepy little farm towns anymore.
The other thing I find inspiring is the spirit. He shows his hard-driving business side, and admits that had some serious impacts on his family and those around him. But there's a level of joy throughout, too. How many business owners view their endeavors as "harvests of joy"? I love it!
Recommended for:
- Anyone who wants to follow their dream,
- People visiting Napa Valley.
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We do a Napa Valley tour for women each fall at harvest season. It's a stunning place - beautiful and sophisticated. Funny to think how different it was, not so long ago...
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