2019. Every year, we move forward with purposeful strides, yet what truly defines our journey is the relentless drive to evolve. The mind is ever in pursuit of new horizons, and although there is an awareness that some ideas may carry inherent risks, there is a firm belief that growth arises only from confronting one's own fears.
Over time, a deepening admiration for vineyards transcended into a profound calling, and each night was spent contemplating how to take the next step within the wine industry.
It was in this environment that the idea to create a unique wine was conceived. Without owning vineyards, and driven solely by an unwavering passion, Leo sought to acquire grapes from a variety of regions.
The lack of experience and a scarcity of mentors led to a considerable setback, but rather than being discouraged, this failure became the catalyst for a deep dive into the complexities of winemaking.
In 2020, after years of invaluable lessons, an opportunity presented itself that would serve as a defining moment: the chance to acquire a property perfectly suited to the company's vision.
This property offered ample space for operations, but what truly captured his imagination were the expansive vineyards stretching out before him. Leo pursued the acquisition process with careful precision, and after a thorough and meticulous process, he was able to secure the property.
Nestled in the scenic region of Coombsville, it was a place of remarkable beauty, and he felt a profound sense of fulfillment as the efforts and aspirations of many years began to bear fruit.
Yet, this time, he chose not to rush. Fully aware of the significance of the moment, he deliberately prepared, thoughtfully charting each step to ensure a strategic and steady approach.
In 2021, at a distinguished wine gathering, Leo had the privilege of meeting the renowned winemaker Leo Téllez, an internationally respected figure in the Napa Valley.
Their conversation, rich in shared visions and aspirations, made it clear that Téllez would be the perfect partner to collaborate with in creating something truly extraordinary.
That same year, they launched their first harvest from Pearls Vineyards, a wine meticulously crafted and exclusively reserved for a select circle of friends and prominent members of the business community—individuals whose discerning perspectives would offer invaluable insight into the quality of their wine.
As time passed, Pearls Farm Labor Inc. continued to flourish, experiencing consistent growth in sales. Nevertheless, the passion for creating his own wines persisted, steadily advancing with conviction.
In 2022, an exciting new opportunity emerged—the chance to acquire another vineyard property, this time in the prestigious Atlas Peak region, where Cabernet Sauvignon thrived.
In addition to overseeing vineyards for other producers, Leo began to manage the vineyards on his own estate. The deeper he ventured into the world of viticulture, however, the more he struggled to settle on a name that would capture the essence of his wines.
What remained clear was the understanding that the name must be intrinsically connected to his personal journey. By sharing elements of his story with Leo Téllez, he realized that, since his childhood, at the age of seven, the desire to succeed and create a better future for his family had always been the driving force behind his aspirations.