Published 03-10-04
Submitted by Mirassou Winery
As America's oldest winemaking family, the Mirassous are celebrating their 150th year in the wine industry. Throughout its business legacy, the family has depended on the optimistic vision of the women of the family. For example, in the late 1800s, second generation Henrietta Mirassou became a widow early in life, leaving her to manage the family business and teach her young sons the art of winemaking.
The first-ever NAWBO/Mirassou Winery award was created to celebrate 150 years of winemaking by the Mirassou family and to award those women who view the glass half full where others might see a glass half empty. The establishment of this award marks Mirassou Winery's official association with NAWBO as a corporate patron for 2004.
"I am so pleased that Mirassou Winery is supporting optimistic women business owners," said David Mirassou, sixth generation family member. "Our original winery overcame numerous challenges, and credit is due to Henrietta Mirassou and the tenacity of a long line of strong women who became business leaders long before that was common."
David Mirassou will present the award at a gala dinner during NAWBO's annual conference in Dallas on June 5.
NAWBO represents the fastest growing segment of the business community: women business owners. By supporting NAWBO, Mirassou is honoring the tenacity, creativity and ingenuity of the American businesswoman.
"We are thrilled to have gained Mirassou Winery's support of NAWBO's national network of dynamic women business owners," said Erin Fuller, NAWBO executive director. "With such a strong heritage behind it, the Mirassou Winery's optimistic spirit reflects the NAWBO philosophy."
An applicant for the award must be a U.S. resident, at least 21 years of age and be an active owner of a business that has been operational for at least two years. For more information and application forms, visit www.mirassou.com or www.nawbo.org. Applications must be received or postmarked on or before April 5, 2004.
About Mirassou Winery: The Mirassou family has been growing grapes and crafting superior wines since 1854, earning them the proud distinction of being America's oldest winemaking family. The family has always been known as innovators - introducing Pinot Noir to California and pioneering commercial grapevines in Monterey County. Today, David Mirassou of the sixth generation carries on the legacy for Mirassou Winery, dedicated to continuing the family's 150 years of excellence in winemaking.
About NAWBO: NAWBO is the only dues-based national organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs in all industries. It currently has more than 8,000 members in nearly 80 chapters nationwide and is affiliated with Les Femmes Chefs d'Entreprises Mondiales (World Association of Women Entrepreneurs) in 35 countries