Peter Mondavi Celebrates 99th Birthday, Inaugurates Hospitality Center at Charles Krug Winery

Peter Mondavi Sr., wine industry pioneer, president of Charles Krug Winery and the oldest living member of the Mondavi wine family, celebrated his 99^th birthday and the opening of a new visitor center at the historic winery. Three branches of the Mondavi family, Napa Valley vintner friends and press attended a reception and grand opening dinner, toasting to the start of a remarkable 100^th year.

The new hospitality center, designed by Architect Howard Backen, features a tasting space at the bar and private seated tables and the Cucina di Rosa Trattoria (opening Spring 2014). The renovation hospitality showcases the grand scale of the original 1872 Redwood Cellar while preserving the patina of time with steel beams, wooden posts and re-purposed redwood wall finishes taken from the production tanks that formerly occupied the space. Arched glass windows that view into the reserve barrel room uniting the working winery with an elegant guest experience.

The evening also honored Culinary Institute of America Chef Larry Forgione and the winery’s 3-acre produce farm, part of a partnership with the cooking school’s farm-to-table program. Lita Asscher, sixth generation family member of Royal Asscher Diamonds presented a preview of the winery’s Auction Napa Valley 2014 Live Lot featuring a trip to London for a private viewing of the Crown Jewels and dinner in the Tower of London. Charles Krug Winery will host the Auction Napa Valley’s Barrel Auction and Marketplace in June 2014.

The hospitality center at Charles Krug Winery is open daily for tours and tastings at 2800 Main Street, St. Helena, Calif. www.charleskrug.com

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