W. Clarke Swanson, Jr.

Director of the Napa Valley Vintner's Association, Napa Valley

Clarke Swanson was born in Omaha, Nebraska, far way from the Napa Valley, which would beckon to him many years later in life.  Before reaching his present Oakville, California dwelling, Clarke lived in, and explored many areas of the United States, and the world.  After receiving a bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science from Stanford, and a Masters of Science Degree in Journalism from Columbia University, he went on to pursue admirable careers in banking, radio broadcasting, cable television, and publishing.

In 1969, Clarke married Elizabeth Pipes of New Orleans, Louisiana.  Since then, they have been blessed with three daughters, Alexis, Veronica and Claiborne.

Clarke Swanson, a former resident of Naples, Florida, among other places, moved to Napa Valley in 1985 to start his most outstanding career yet, as proprietor of Swanson Vineyards.

Mr. Swanson is a Director of the Napa Valley Vintner’s Association, an overseer for Stanford University’s Hoover Institution, Vice President and Director of the Friends of the Lincoln Performing Arts Theater in Napa Valley and the former president of the Oakville Wine Grower’s Association.