Remembering James Laube: A Tribute to the Esteemed Wine Spectator Napa Bureau Chief

James Laube, the respected Napa bureau chief of Wine Spectator and a prominent wine critic, passed away at the age of 73 following a brief illness. Laube dedicated 40 years to the magazine and was known for his impeccable palate and candid reviews.

Joining Wine Spectator in 1983, Laube became influential in popularizing California wines through his writing, which included four books such as “California’s Great Cabernets.” Tim McDonald, a veteran in wine public relations, highlighted Laube’s storytelling as transformative for American perceptions of wine, calling him "the original influencer."

Laube’s journey began in Anaheim, where he studied history at San Diego State University. His fascination with wine sparked during visits to a local wine shop and trips to Sonoma County with a friend. Over time, he developed a special affinity for California Cabernet wines, recalling fondly enjoying well-priced selections like the 1968 Louis M. Martini Cabernet.

He moved to Napa Valley in 1978, where he initially worked as a bureau chief for the Vallejo-Times Herald. His wine writing gained traction, notably with his coverage of the Wine Auction where a case of Opus One fetched $24,000.

As a critic, Laube was revered for his honesty—an aspect of his character that sometimes provoked controversy. In the early 2000s, he raised concerns about high levels of 2,4,6-trichloroanisole (TCA) present in various wines, including those from Château Montelena. Despite criticism, his commitment to impartiality and consumer advocacy defined his legacy.

After retiring in 2019, Laube’s influence on the wine industry remained evident. Tony Lombardi, founder of Lombardi Wines, noted that Laube’s integrity shaped many in the industry, inspiring wine enthusiasts on their discovery journeys. His long-time friend Jeff Gaffner described Laube as someone who didn’t take himself too seriously and relished genuine connections outside of wine.

Survived by his family, Laube’s impact will be remembered at a private memorial service scheduled for May.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!