Milla Jovovich, actress, Maryann Johndrow and David Johndrow, founder of Forum Wine and Johndrow Vineyards, at the Bringing Up Bobby cast party in Oklahoma City
Born to rival the best
A masterful example of the top tier fruit and structure requisite for a Bordeaux blend. Crafted from five Bordeaux varietals: cabernet, cabernet franc, merlot, petite verdot and malbec, Forum is sourced from Napa Valley’s premiere vineyards. A rich concentration of aromas captures bright fruits and earthy nuances of black cherry, violets, pepper and spice. The mid palate is ripe and full with cassis, chocolate and cherries; the finish bold and aggressive with lasting tannins and fruits. Delivering a dynamic blackberry and currant finish, this wine was born to rival the best of Napa Valley.
David Johndrow
Founder & Wine Fanatic
Entering the business world at the age of 21, David Johndrow, founder of Johndrow Vineyards, became fascinated with wine as he realized that the person who knew the most about wine at a business dinner controlled the table conversation and was seen as an expert. David began to study wine throughout the next 15 years while making journeys to Napa Valley and surrounding areas in search of the perfect drinker.
“I loved finding the best wine at the best price point.”
For David, the only turn off to wine was the wine snobs that thought they knew everything about wine or more than anyone else because they ordered the most expensive bottle on the reserve list.
“The great thing about wine is the optimism that everyone has when they first open the bottle. They want to love it!”
It’s that optimism and vision that is at the heart of Johndrow Vineyards.
Rob Lawson
The Wine Maker
Fine wine seemingly runs through Rob Lawson’s veins, certainly a deep hue of red, although it could easily be champagne colored or perhaps a blend. With his pedigree as a third generation Napa native and wine connoisseur, Rob was destined to make exquisite wine. Wine that told stories. Wine that evoked emotions. Great, and occasionally perfect, wine.
The tradition runs deep. In 1960, Rob’s grandfather became Beringer Winery’s first president paving the way for future generations. Rob’s father has held positions as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for many top wineries in Napa Valley.
After graduation from California State University, Fresno, with a degree in Plant Science, and an emphasis in Viticulture and Enology, Rob held various positions in the wine industry until finally settling back in Napa as the General Manager of Napa Wine Company. As one of the largest and most highly respected custom crush facilities in Napa Valley, Rob soon took on the position of CEO where he oversaw the production of more than 60 wine labels. Including highly sought after wines from California, such as Pahlmeyer, Bryant Family, Colgin, Showkette, and Staglin Rob has worked with the some of the most prominent winemakers of the world, such as Helen Turley, Paul Hobbs and Heidi Peterson Barrett, to name a few.
Since his reign as CEO, Rob has proven successful and his wine is world-renowned. Rob’s famous wine has regularly scored in the nineties by wine critics. A few worth mentioning include Kapcsandy 94 points, Ghostblock, 92 points noted by Wine Spectator as the next cult wine, and 75 Wine Co. scoring 90 points.
Rob Lawson has collaborated with David Johndrow to release a series of wines from Johndrow Vineyards, and just like the wine he makes Rob keeps getting better with age. These wines are superb in quality and craftsmanship as JV Clarity, JV Cab, JV Reserve and Forum are products of a skilled master at work.
Talent is often bestowed unevenly. Rob Lawson’s blend of art and science has created titillating experiences, sometimes in one short drink. Rob’s successful reputation is built upon his unique philosophy, excellent grape growing practices and his passion for all areas of the winemaking industry.