Our Story
THE CAUSE
John Wayne beat lung cancer in 1964. He died 15 years later after a struggle with cancer of the stomach. During this difficult period, he became passionate about helping others fight this terrible disease.
To honor his memory, his family created the John Wayne Cancer Foundation in 1985 with a mission to lead the fight against cancer with courage, strength and grit. The John Wayne Cancer Foundation funds novel and innovative programs that improve patients’ outcomes and save lives through research, education, awareness and support.
The Wayne Family Estate wine club and sales support the John Wayne Cancer Foundation.
About The Duke Napa Valley
John Wayne
The Genuine Article
- “I have tried to live my life so that my family would love me and my friends respect me. The others can do whatever the hell they please.”
Ethan Wayne
President, John Wayne Enterprises & John Wayne Cancer Foundation
- “John Wayne represents so many things to so many people. But to me, he was a bold, outgoing individual who was full of life, constantly moving forward … And nobody sat on a horse like my dad. I can’t wait for you to taste our exquisite wines and share them with the ones you love.”
Marisa Wayne
Daughter of John Wayne
- “When I think of my father to this day, I remember those special family times – especially on the Wild Goose enjoying the outdoors and open water. When I enjoy a fine glass of wine, like my father did, it is always centered around cherished moments with close family and friends.”
Anita Swift
Granddaughter of John Wayne
- “Growing up in the San Fernando Valley in California in the 1970’s, I have so many great memories of the Duke just being my granddaddy. For me, Wayne Family Estate is a great reminder of those special family gatherings, and also an amazing opportunity to support our family legacy with the John Wayne Cancer Foundation.”
Buck Taylor
Western Actor & Renowned Artist
- “I was lucky to grow up around John Wayne in Southern California and be part of many western movies and TV shows like Gunsmoke & Yellowstone. I look forward to honoring John with my art on a future wine label and sharing a glass with my wife Goldie.”
Brandon R. Chaney
Proprietor & CEO, Wayne Family Estate
- “Appearing in more than 175 films during a career that spanned a half-century, John Wayne became the personification of the Western hero and an American icon. I am honored to make these wines with Ethan in celebration of all that is John Wayne in the hearts of all Americans.”
Our Approach
Honoring the Land
Great winemaking starts in the vineyard. We harmonize with Napa Valley's diverse terroir to craft wines that capture its essence. Our sustainable approach uses minimal organic inputs and regenerative practices, nurturing a vibrant ecosystem—from soil microbes to local wildlife.
Sourced from varied vineyards with sedimentary, volcanic, clay, and loam soils, our blends feature heritage California selections and premium European clones for rich, dynamic flavors in every bottle.
A Commitment to Balance
Our winemaking philosophy is all about balance — between soil and rootstocks, fruit and canopy, structure and acidity. We hand-harvest grapes at peak ripeness, then meticulously sort them by hand and with advanced optical technology to select only the very best fruit.
The result is wines with pure fruit expression, elegant complexity, and beautiful depth. Bold reds that reveal themselves with decanting. Vibrant whites that shine with freshness and texture. Every bottle honors both tradition and innovation.
Sustainability at Our Core
Preserving the environment behind our wines has been central to our philosophy. As a charter member of the Napa Green Winery program since 2007, we were among the first three Napa Valley wineries to earn certification.
Our commitment spans every operation:
Napa Green Certified Facility: We meet over 120 sustainability standards, from water conservation to cutting our carbon footprint.
Regenerative Farming: We nurture a vibrant vineyard ecosystem, safeguarding biodiversity—from soil earthworms to roaming jackrabbits and foxes.
Next-Generation Solar-Powered: Our winemaking facility runs entirely on a massive solar array.
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