Annual Membership Meeting - A Look Back

"These are challenging times. We've spent considerable time reflecting on where we missed opportunities to engage the next generation and how we failed to anticipate the resurgence of the temperance movement. The challenges ahead are real, but when we step back and focus on the heart of what we do—growing exceptional grapes and crafting extraordinary wines—we realize that at its core, our work is about sharing joy. There’s joy in every glass of wine, in the moments of togetherness it creates, and in the stories each vintage tells, whether it was a banner year or one filled with hardship." - Caleb Mosley, Executive Director, Napa Valley Grapegrowers

Napa Valley Grapegrowers Annual Membership Meeting: A Conversation with Thomas Keller & Michael Silacci

Together with our member partner, Opus One, Napa Valley Grapegrowers hosted its Annual Membership Meeting, bringing together growers, vintners, and industry leaders to celebrate the strength of our community and look toward the future of sustainable viticulture. This year’s event was particularly special, featuring a thought-provoking panel conversation between culinary legend Thomas Keller and Opus One’s esteemed winemaker, Michael Silacci. Their discussion provided deep insights into the intersection of food, wine, and craftsmanship, offering inspiration for all in attendance.

Cultivating Excellence: Lessons from Two Icons
Keller and Silacci's conversation centered around a shared philosophy of excellence, precision, and sustainability. While their industries differ—one rooted in the artistry of cuisine, the other in the nuanced craft of winemaking—their approach to innovation, tradition, and stewardship shares striking similarities.
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Sustainability & Long-Term Vision
Silacci emphasized the importance of long-term thinking in viticulture, drawing parallels to Keller’s approach to building restaurants. Both leaders stressed that sustainability isn’t just about farming; it’s about cultivating a culture of respect, patience, and responsibility.

​The Pursuit of Perfection
Keller, renowned for his meticulous attention to detail at The French Laundry, spoke about the commitment to quality that defines Napa Valley’s wine and food industries. “The process is as important as the result,” he explained. “We don’t just create dishes or bottles of wine—we create experiences that last a lifetime.” Silacci echoed this sentiment, describing how winemaking requires the same precision, intuition, and creativity found in world-class kitchens.

Community, Collaboration & Legacy
Both Keller and Silacci reflected on the power of mentorship and knowledge-sharing. They credited their successes to the wisdom passed down by previous generations and emphasized the importance of building a strong community that supports the next wave of farmers, winemakers, and chefs.

A Unified Commitment to Napa’s Future
As the discussion came to a close, it was clear that the passion for preserving Napa Valley’s rich heritage while embracing innovation is stronger than ever. The event served as a reminder that whether in the vineyard, the winery, or the kitchen, collaboration and stewardship will ensure Napa Valley’s excellence endures for generations to come. Finally, Keller touched upon the reputation of Napa Valley and reminded us of all that we need to “remain elite, but not elitist.”
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NVG extends a heartfelt thank you to Thomas Keller, Michael Silacci, Opus One and all who attended this year’s Annual Membership Meeting. As we look ahead, we remain committed to supporting our growers and fostering a thriving, resilient winegrowing community.