The tradition of winemaking started in 1899 in Naples, Italy with Victor Nozzolillo, Bourassa’s grandfather. In 1910, he came to America by himself, greeted only by an older brother who also left Italy at a very young age. Victor fought in and survived WWI before settling down to raise a family.
On Shrewsbury Street in Worcester, Massachusetts in the early 1900's, street-style farmers' markets were the order of the day. Grapes from other states were on display in wooden boxes, ripe for home winemaking (mostly done in the basement during Prohibition.) It was Victor Bourassa’s grandfather who provided him an inheritance of tradition as a winemaker. He instilled in Bourassa an eagerness to learn the ancient craft of winemaking.
On the other side of town, Bourassa’s other grandfather, Joseph Bourassa, tended his entrepreneurial spirit by building a neighborhood grocery store from the ground up. He too planted a seed within Vic Bourassa to honor and build on tradition.
Many of Victor Bourassa’s memories provide confidence in seeking the knowledge in winemaking and entrepreneurship for his wine business today. Bourassa Vineyards is built on this strong family tradition in Napa Valley. Bourassa recognized the importance of these people who have touched his life. They have taught him to work hard, have integrity, and always be optimistic in life.
