Harlan
Lail
Robin grew up among the vineyards of Inglenook, founded in 1879 by her great-granduncle, Gustave Niebaum, who pioneered fine winemaking in Napa. Inglenook was passed down to Robin’s grandfather and then to her father, John Daniel Jr., a true innovator (he was the first to put ‘Napa Valley’ on his labels, and pioneered varietal labeling) who produced legendary wines. Robin was touched by her dad’s passion and focus on tradition and excellence. In 1964, two years after Robin graduated from Stanford University, her father sold Inglenook. In 1970 after her father’s death, she shepherded the remaining estate vineyards. 7 years later she launched her career as Robert Mondavi’s personal assistant, who became her mentor. While at Robert Mondavi Winery, she directed the creation of the first Auction Napa Valley. In 1982 Robin co-founded Dominus with Christian Moueix, and in 1983 co-founded Merryvale Vineyards with Bill Harlan, where she served as president for 12 years. In the mid-90’s, Robin sold out of her partnerships with a vision of bringing her family’s exciting legacy into the 21st Century. In 1995 she and her two daughters, Erin and Shannon, launched Lail Vineyards. Today, the venture carries on the legacy of over 135 years of winemaking in Napa.