Yao Family Wines Opens Napa Valley Tasting Room

Yao Ming, global humanitarian, vintner and retired NBA star, has opened a hospitality center for his YAO MING and Napa Crest wines in Napa Valley.

Yao Family Wines launched its 2009 vintage in 2011. "We are very excited to open the doors at our new home in St. Helena. We look forward to welcoming fans of our wines, and introducing ourselves to new friends as well," said founder Yao Ming."Our hospitality center is warm and welcoming, and allows us to share our wines with visitors from all over the world."

Yao Family Wines is located at 929 Main Street, St. Helena, just south of the popular Gott's Roadside restaurant on the west side within walking distance of St. Helena's shops and restaurants. Yao Ming hosted a preview event for trade and VIPs at the new tasting room and celebrated his first barrel lot at the Napa Valley Vintners' Premiere Napa Valley barrel auction, on February 19.

The center's expansive marble-topped oval bar and intimate lounge spaces accommodate groups as well as private guided tastings. Photographs and images from Ming's storied basketball career and humanitarian efforts line the walls. Collectors Circle members enjoy a comfortable private club lounge and outdoor patios shaded by olive trees. Tasting offerings include three menus: the Access Tasting with two Napa Crest wines and the YAO MING Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($35); the Reserve Tasting with Napa Crest Red Blend, YAO MING Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, YAO MING Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and a cheese plate ($50); and a Library Tasting includes the 2010, 2011 and 2012 limited YAO MING Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($80) served with a cheese plate.

Chuck House, celebrated California wine label designer, created the labels for the Yao Family Wines portfolio featuring a hand-drawn illustration of Napa Valley with the ancient Chinese character for "Yao," elegantly representing both cultures in which Yao Ming has made his home.

Yao Family Wines is open seven days a week 10am-5pm, 929 Main Street, St. Helena, California. Private appointments and walk-in tastings are available. Guided tastings are available in Mandarin. Call 707-968-5874 or visit www.yaofamilywines.com.

SOURCE Yao Family Wines

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