On Thursday at the ZINO Society KEYnoteable luncheon sponsored by Key Private Bank and hosted at John Howie Steak at the the Bravern in Bellevue, good friend and founder of Long Shadows Vintners, Allen Shoup, was the featured guest. Allen shared the story of his life’s career path through major marketing and executive positions in Amway, Max Factor, Gallo Winery, Chateau Ste. Michelle and finally discussed his development of Long Shadows Vintners and the opportunity to bring together top winemakers from around the world to partner with him in developing seven new wine brands, each scoring consistently over 90 points with Robert Parker.
Allen also had fascinating insider stories he shared about other giants in the wine industry whom, in his opinion, had cast a “long shadow” with their life’s work. One of the people that Allen mentioned as an example of one who cast a long shadow was Bob Mondavi, founder of Robert Mondavi Winery. Allen was one of the five people who gave an eulogy at Robert Mondavi’s funeral. Another among several he mentioned, was Walter Clore, who was a pioneer in viticulture and agricultural research in the state of Washington and has been formally recognized as “Father of Washington Wine”.
The luncheon guests enjoyed the elegant private dining room at John Howie Steak and delicious selections from a luncheon menu especially chosen for the ZINO Society KEYnoteable luncheon. Allen never had the chance to eat a bite however, because we kept him so busy sharing stories and his wisdom about winemaking and marketing. John Howie, owner and chef of John Howie Steak, stopped by to greet everyone and pay his respects to Allen as well.
Representing Key Private Bank, our luncheon sponsor that makes these very special, intimate KEYnoteable Luncheons possible, were Lynn Bain and Tiffany Koenig. Thank you Lynn and Tiffany!
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