With great sadness, we note that long-time friend of the Duke, Jamie Davies, co-founder of Schramsberg Vineyards, has passed away.

Considered the grande dame of American sparkling wine, she died Tuesday afternoon at the Calistoga estate where she and her late husband, Jack, launched the world-renowned Schramsberg brand more than four decades ago. The well-liked 73-year-old Napa Valley wine industry pioneer had courageously battled failing health in recent years.

Jamie and Jack abandoned the corporate world of Southern California in the mid-1960s, seeking a simpler lifestyle. They took a big risk in purchasing an abandoned 220-acre forested estate on Calistoga's Diamond Mountain with the idea of producing the country's "most prestigious" sparkling wine.

They succeeded beyond their dreams. Their initial bottling, a 1965 Blanc de Blancs, was the first commercial use of chardonnay in a sparkling wine. Similar feats occurred with Blanc de Noirs and Reserve wines, and their innovative spirit earned the Davies' recognition throughout the world. Their efforts also earned the respect of renowned Champagne houses where they were welcomed on numerous visits. In 1972, the 1969 Blanc de Blancs was served at the "Toast to Peace" in Beijing, over which President Richard Nixon and Premier Chou En-lai presided. Schramsberg wines have been served at state functions by every subsequent administration in the White House.

Following husband Jack's death in 1998, many expected her to sell the esteemed wine estate. However, in the tradition of many widows of Champagne, Jamie continued the quest. Initially she was on her own, but was joined later by her son, Hugh.

Schramsberg has played such an important part in the history of the Duke. We are proud to say that we have carried every vintage of wine they produced, including the very first release in the late 1960s. Both Jack and Jamie were guests at our events over the years and we helped each other celebrate many significant occasions. We have missed Jack greatly since he passed away early in 1998 and we will miss Jamie immensely, too.