Fall 2006

In Loving Memory

Boots & Al Brounstein

Famed Napa Valley Vintner Al Brounstein died on Monday, June 26th, due to complications from Parkinson's disease. He was 86 years old and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Brounstein was the founder of Diamond Creek Vineyards, one of California's first Cabernet Sauvignon-only estates. Born in Saskatchewan, Canada and raised in Minnesota, Brounstein became a successful pharmaceuticals wholesaler in Southern California in the 1960's. In 1969 he married Boots Ross and soon the couple moved to San Francisco and then the Napa Valley. Brounstein purchased 79 acres of land on rugged Diamond Mountain in the Napa Valley and founded Diamond Creek Vineyards. Brounstein planted his property as three separate vineyards, Red Rock Terrace, Gravelly Meadow and Volcanic Hill, named for the different soils found in each. In total,
only 20 acres were planted. It was one of the first California boutique vineyards. The first vintage of Diamond Creek Cabernet Sauvignon was produced in 1972. He later added a fourth vineyard, Lake. Wine Spectator called the 1978 Diamond Creek Lake "One of the greatest [Cabernets] from California."

Nearly 500 family, friends, business associates and life-long admirers attended Al's Celebration of Life at the Culinary Institute of America in Napa on July 27rh. They shared in personal stories and experiences, music and a video that remembered Brounstein's incredible journey through life. Brounstein is survived by his loving wife Boots. In lieu of flowers the family requested that donations be made to The Parkinson's Institute, 1170 Morse Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94089.

For many years Al and Boots Brounstein were strong supporters in the fight against Parkinson's disease with their funding of various research projects at The Parkinson's Institute. The Brounstein's and their friends are responsible for donating over $1,000,000 through their elegant "Diamonds in the Rough" fundraising dinner held at their Estate. This year's sold-out event was held on Saturday, September 30th and featured the culinary delights of master chef Thomas Keller from the very popular restaurant French Laundry. He created a delicious and special five-course feast for the 54 guests. Last year's event made approximately $180,000, which was donated to the Institute for Parkinson's disease research. Boots remains committed to the fight against Parkinson's disease, and for that, those who suffer from PD and whose who work for the cure thank her for her generous support. ~

--click for printable version of this article--