Robin Daniel Lail is a name is synonymous with heritage, excellence, and innovation in American winemaking. Born and raised among the vineyards of Inglenook, founded in 1879 by her great-granduncle, Gustave Niebaum, Robin was steeped early in the traditions of fine winemaking. As founder and owner of Lail Vineyards (established in 1995), she carries forward a family legacy rooted in one of California’s most storied wine estates.

After earning her degree from Stanford University in 1962, Robin’s path led her into the wine world formally in 1977, where she began working under Robert Mondavi, who became a mentor. During her tenure, she played a central role in creating the first Auction Napa Valley, an event that continues to shape the region’s philanthropic and wine culture.

In the early 1980s, Robin co-founded two influential wine estates: Dominus with Christian Moueix in 1982, and Merryvale Vineyards in 1983 with Bill Harlan. She served as President of Merryvale for twelve years, helping to establish it among Napa’s foremost producers. In 1995, alongside her daughters Erin and Shannon, Robin launched Lail Vineyards, a venture that unites her family’s deep traditions with a modern vision.

Beyond her winemaking, Robin is celebrated for her role in building Napa Valley’s identity — through philanthropy, sustainable practices, and fostering community among vintners. She is honored not only for preserving her family’s legacy, but for embodying the belief that quality, authenticity, and respect for the land define what Napa wine can and should be.

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