Olivia Brion

It is amazing how many people have been inspired to pursue wine because they took a wine class in college to fulfill some requirement. They take the class, next thing you know they are changing their career plans and moving to Napa.Have you ever wondered who the teachers were who inspired these changes? Surely it's not the text book or the lab that does all the inspiring. While those things are powerful tools, more often then
not, the inspiration comes from the teacher. A great teacher is passionate about the subjects and their desire is to inspire others to love that subject as much as he/she does. I know for myself I always enjoyed those classes the most in college.

David Mahaffey taught at the Napa Valley College for many years. He taught Wine Production and Wines of the World. Many of the wines you taste in Napa Valley are either made or poured by former students of his. When you visit David, he will not only share his wine in barrel and bottle, but will gladly try to answer your questions about wine, simple or complicated, as well.

David makes three different wines by hand, Palladian-- a great Cab, Olivia Brion-- a delicious Pinot Noir, and Lord Nelson "Victory", a lively port. David's wines tend to be lower in alcohol and beautifully balanced, in essence, very food friendly. (The wine buyers at the best restaurants in the Napa Valley think so).

A visit with David is fun. How else can I describe it? He's so excited about making wine and equally excited to share that passion with his guests. His enthusiasm is still contagious after twenty-eight vintages of winemaking. And thank goodness for that. One thing we can all use is contagious enthusiasm! Visit Palladian
Winery, catch the passion, and spread it to your friends!

Click here to learn more detail about Olivia Brion in our Winery Directory

Click here to learn how Chef Binder paired Olivia Brion Pinot Noir with Food.