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1936 - 2023

Donald M. Hess

Donald Hess, founder of The Hess Collection winery, died peacefully at his home in Bern, Switzerland on January 30, 2023. He was 86. He is survived by his wife Ursula, his daughter Alessandra, his stepdaughters Larissa, and Sabrina, and five grandchildren.

Donald had an infectious curiosity and fearlessly followed his intuition. He was a source of great inspiration and admiration to anyone who had the pleasure of working with him — he will be missed by many.

His steadfast belief in sustainability built The Hess Collection winery into a cornerstone of California Cabernet Sauvignon. Over 45 years after he first fell in love with Mount Veeder, we continue what he started in Napa with that same belief. His legacy, however, extends well beyond our corner of the world.

After establishing The Hess Collection, Donald opened The Hess Collection Art Museum in Napa, revitalized Bodega Colome in Salta, Argentina, and subsequently opened the James Turrell Museum in Salta.


Obituary for Donald Hess (PDF)
Press Release (PDF)
Photographs of Donald Hess
Press Contact: [email protected]

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