Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/111102
BEST BANK/LENDER * WELLS FARGO In New York City on March 18, 1852, Henry Wells, William Fargo and others formed a joint stock company to do banking and express business in faraway California. Wells Fargo & Company's Express transacted financial services through the fastest means available -- overseas by sailing ship or steamer, overland by stagecoach, Pony Express and railroad; and later, electronically by telegraph, radio, telephone and the Internet. Wells Fargo has been there for miners, merchants, farmers and ranchers since 1852, and today the company also serves the needs of vintners and grapegrowers. BEST LEGAL SERVICES PROVIDER * CARLE, MACKIE, POWER & ROSS LLP CMPR Carle, Mackie, Power & Ross (CMPR) is an independent law firm based in Santa Rosa, Calif., CARLE MACKIE POWER & ROSS LLP founded on shared principles and values. The firm's goal is to find prompt, practical, functional and creative solutions for its clients, and to communicate in a clear and timely manner, no matter how complex the subject. The firm has a passion for the wine industry, and an extensive understanding of and experience with many of the strategic as well as day-to-day business and regulatory issues that can arise in the course of business. The company provides legal advice and assistance to wineries, growers, distributors, retailers, lenders and investors in many areas, including advertising and labeling, direct shipment and e-commerce, environmental regulations, grape contracts, mergers and acquisitions, and more. CMPR strives to provide clients with clear and prompt communication and to put clients first, every time. BEST NURSERY * NOVAVINE Novavine was founded in 1996 as a grapevine nursery devoted to both quality products and service. With the goal of offering the widest array of important varietal and clonal selections, Novavine has strategic partnerships with Vivai Cooperativi Rauscedo (VCR) in Italy, the world's largest grapevine nursery; Herrick Grapevines, a boutique nursery in St. Helena, Calif., with access to one of the most sought-after French collections of clones; and Tablas Creek Nursery in Paso Robles, which offers one of the most comprehensive sources of Rhone varieties in the United States. An industry leader in sustainable practices, Novavine implemented the first probiotic (non-chemical) techniques in 2004 to establish, grow and protect plants using inputs such as compost teas. Since then, it has developed many non-chemical methods to enhance plant growth and health in the propagation cycle. The company's commitment to a non-toxic workplace – one that safeguards air, water, soil, wildlife and employees – is considered the cornerstone of its sustainable nursery operations. Novavine's mission is to offer its customers the highest quality plant material, the best customer experience and the widest selection of quality varieties and clones. With a company philosophy of "Better viticulture through cooperation," Novavine values its lasting relationships with customers. w w w. v w m media.com M a r - A p r 2 0 13 | V I N E YA R D & W I N E RY M A N A G E M E N T 43