51 Years of Growing Forward: NVG’s Annual Celebration

5/21/2026

On Friday, May 8, the Napa Valley Grapegrowers gathered at Louis M. Martini Winery for an evening that reminded us exactly why this organization exists and who it exists to serve.

Our 51st Annual Celebration brought together growers, vintners, partners, and friends from across Napa Valley to recognize a community built not simply on wine, but on farming, stewardship, and the shared belief that this place is worth protecting for generations to come.

Each year, Annual Celebration offers a moment to pause during the growing season and reflect on the people behind the vineyards. The individuals and families who rise before sunrise, adapt through uncertainty, invest in the land, and continue moving Napa Valley agriculture forward.

This year’s celebration was especially meaningful as we honored Jim Regusci as the 2026 Grower of the Year.

For many in attendance, the recognition felt deeply fitting.

Jim’s connection to Napa Valley reaches back nearly a century. In 1932, his grandfather, Gaetano Regusci, purchased what would become the family ranch in Stags Leap District. Over the decades that followed, the Regusci family evolved alongside Napa Valley itself, farming through changing seasons, shifting markets, and the transformation of the region into one of the world’s most recognized winegrowing communities.
Jim carried that legacy forward in his own way.

At just 19 years old, he launched Regusci Vineyard Management, building what would become one of Napa Valley’s most respected vineyard operations. In 1996, alongside his father Angelo, he helped establish Regusci Winery, continuing a family story rooted in agriculture, hard work, and an enduring commitment to this valley.
Today, Regusci Vineyard Management farms more than 2,000 acres with a team of more than 175 employees, but Jim’s impact extends far beyond acreage. Throughout his career, he has championed responsible farming, invested in people, and quietly helped shape the future of viticulture in Napa Valley.

That spirit reflects the values behind the Grower of the Year Award itself: leadership, stewardship, community, and a dedication to advancing agriculture for the long term.
As we looked around that evening, there was something special in seeing multiple generations gathered together. Longtime growers reconnecting. New voices entering the industry. Partners and supporters raising a glass alongside the people whose work keeps Napa Valley’s agricultural landscape thriving.

For more than five decades, the Napa Valley Grapegrowers has worked to cultivate viticultural excellence and environmental stewardship across the valley. Through education, advocacy, research, and community investment, we remain committed to ensuring Napa Valley continues to be a place where agriculture can thrive.
Annual Celebration is a reflection of that mission.

To everyone who joined us, supported the event, and helped make the evening possible: thank you.

And to Jim Regusci, congratulations once again on being named our 2026 Grower of the Year. Your leadership, dedication, and commitment to this community continue to leave a lasting mark on Napa Valley.

Here’s to another year of growing forward together!