Michel Rolland

Michel Rolland

A tribute from Naoko Dalla Valle

Our journey with Michel Rolland began more than twenty years ago, during one of the most challenging chapters in Dalla Valle’s history. We were deep in the replanting of our vineyards — including Maya’s vineyard — and it was a trying time that called for steady guidance and quiet confidence. Michel provided both. His expertise and reassurance were a genuine source of strength, and for that we will always be grateful.

Over the years, Michel became far more than a consultant. He was a mentor to Maya, a trusted voice in our winery, and above all, a dear friend. He was generous with his support of our charitable work. He was there to celebrate the milestones that mattered most — Maya's graduation from Cornell, her wedding dinner — sharing in our joy as naturally as if he were family, and among so many other moments we will forever hold close. His passion for life, and especially for wine, was infectious. We loved his humor, his warmth, his insatiable curiosity, and his extraordinary generosity of spirit. A true pioneer, he lived fully and joyfully, and delighted in sharing everything he loved with those around him. He was larger than life, and truly one of a kind.

Michel’s departure has left a profound void — not only at Dalla Valle Vineyards, but in our hearts. We are forever grateful for the gift of his friendship. He helped shape not just our wines, but our winemaker, Maya — and that is a debt that cannot be repaid, only cherished. The world of wine, and the world itself, has lost an extraordinary winemaker and an even greater human being.