About the Award
Richard (Rich) Smith, founder of Valley Farm Management, Paraiso Vineyards and Smith Family Wines in California's Santa Lucia Highlands wine region, was first and foremost a family man, and also a successful grape grower and winery owner, and a respected colleague. Through his significant and selfless contributions of time, energy and funds to organizations that advance the American grape and wine industry, he came to be known as a highly effective, collegial and tireless leader. He passed away in December 2015.
Three of the organizations Rich helped to shape—the National Grape Research Alliance (NGRA), WineAmerica and Winegrape Growers of America (WGA)—collaborated to create the Rich Smith Distinguished Service Award to honor his spirit and legacy. It annually recognizes people who demonstrate similar qualities and make a similarly positive impact on the industry, and gives us an opportunity to remember this remarkable man.
Three of the organizations Rich helped to shape—the National Grape Research Alliance (NGRA), WineAmerica and Winegrape Growers of America (WGA)—collaborated to create the Rich Smith Distinguished Service Award to honor his spirit and legacy. It annually recognizes people who demonstrate similar qualities and make a similarly positive impact on the industry, and gives us an opportunity to remember this remarkable man.
Please provide the following information to make a nomination by October 29, 2021. The recipient will be named at the WGA Leadership Luncheon on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, in Sacramento. Thank you for taking the time to recognize a leader!
Past Winners
2017 - John Martini, Anthony Road Wine Company
2018 - Pete Downs, Family Winemakers of California
2019 - Jerry Lohr, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines
2020 - Jim Trezise, WineAmerica
2017 - John Martini, Anthony Road Wine Company
2018 - Pete Downs, Family Winemakers of California
2019 - Jerry Lohr, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines
2020 - Jim Trezise, WineAmerica
2021 - Donniella Winchell, Ohio Wine Producers Association