Early Life
Barbara Banke was born in Southern California in the 1950s. She earned a Bachelor's degree from UCLA and a Juris Doctor from UC Hastings College of Law. Before her career in the wine industry, Banke practiced law, including arguing cases before the United States Supreme Court and Courts of Appeal.
Rise to Success
Banke's journey into the wine industry began in the 1980s when she and her husband, Jess Jackson, founded Jackson Family Wines. After her husband's passing in 2011, she took on the role of Chairman and Proprietor, leading the company's expansion and strategic initiatives. Her leadership has been pivotal in shaping Jackson Family Wines into a global collection of world-class vineyards and wineries, including properties in California, Oregon, France, Italy, Chile, Australia, and South Africa.
Key Business Strategies
Banke's hands-on approach has been instrumental in developing and promoting Jackson Family wine estates. She has focused on vineyard acquisitions, strategic partnerships, and sustainability initiatives. The company has also set a goal to transition 100% of their estate vineyards to regenerative farming by 2030. In addition to Kendall-Jackson, the group owns La Crema and nearly 40 other wineries in California, Oregon, Chile, Italy and beyond.
Philanthropy
Banke is actively involved in philanthropy, supporting numerous charities and causes. She has chaired the Sonoma County Wine Auction, raising record-breaking amounts for the local community. She and her family have contributed significantly to educational initiatives and the Family Justice Center Sonoma County. She is a global ambassador for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
