This memoir is a story of the early "Golden Era" in Napa Valley.  Bruce Macumber is one of the few remaining participants in that unique period of the developing Napa Valley wine industry, devastated by disease, Prohibition, and depression.  Only about 20 wineries were operating.

With dedication, a business education, and adherence to his career plan, Bruce found himself  precisely in the midst of this historic period.

The author introduces readers to the wine pioneers of the 1960s and 1970s, all of whom were visionary; some had serious money to spend. Bruce knew and worked with most of them.

This personal memoir begins in the early 1960s with his college life, attending sales “boot camp," his employment as Field Marketing Manager, and Manager of Distributor Relations with Gallo, the world’s largest winery.  

His next role was Director of Sales and V.P. National Sales Manager at Napa Valley’s newest winery, Sterling Vineyards, where he managed all sales. He continued as a sales representative for the owners of numerous Napa Valley wineries, many of which were influential and famous, including Chateau Montelena, Joseph Phelps, Caymus Vineyards, Chappellet Vineyards, Stags’ Leap, Far Niente, Robert Keenan, School House Vineyard, & Freemark Abbey. 

By 1986, Bruce was/had been a sales representative for over 20% of all Napa Valley’s 150 wineries. In his 30-year wine sales career, he has sold wines from 53 California wineries.

He then moved to Paris and introduced Napa Valley to the French! See how he did it!

The author's story spans more than 30 years!

The author continues to maintain close friendships with remaining pioneering Napa Valley winemakers and wineries who continue to contribute to Napa Valley's success and development. 

He is now retired and lives near Palm Springs, enjoying family, tennis travel, and wine!