WOMEN+POWER 2025: Leslie Frank

Mergers and acquisitions in the wine world have become commonplace and many of these transactions yield marked transitions, often to the detriment of those who’ve come to love the brand. In 2021, fans of Napa Valley’s Frank Family Vineyards learned it was being sold to Treasury America, a division of Australia-based Treasury Wine Estates.

Thankfully and with great wisdom, the change of ownership kept founders Rich and Leslie Frank wholly deployed as ambassadors for the brand they built together over the past three decades.

Leslie’s presence in Frank Family Vineyards, and in Napa Valley generally, is palpable and from the heart. But the first thing one observes about Leslie is her elegance and chic style. Rich’s long career in television and film provides ample opportunities to express that style on red carpets aplenty. When pressed on this point, Leslie told Polo Lifestyles, “I love fashion, and I do keep up on the trends. While I have many favorite designers, I rarely have time to shop. Thankfully, my close friend and stylist Elyse Walker helps keep me fashionable.” Walker has eponymous stores in several locations, including in Napa’s St. Helena.

That keen appreciation of aesthetics also extends to architecture and interior design. In 2023, The Miller House opened on the vineyard grounds. Dubbed a “hospitality barn,” Leslie said it was “born from my vision to build a unique and special entertaining area for guests to connect over wine, food, and shared moments.”

It’s a stunningly gorgeous edifice with a copious use of glass, neutral and soothing color schemes, and inviting, intimate spaces. It feels as naturally and effortlessly elegant as its designer.

Leslie’s love of philanthropy also defines how she moves in the world. “Rich and I have always shared a passion for helping people. Helping others is a core value that was instilled in both of us early on in our lives.” Most recently, wine and philanthropy once again coalesced in the launch of Frank Family Vineyard’s 2024 Leslie Rosé with 15 percent of the proceeds from every bottle sold going to the nonprofit Dress for Success. The organization addresses gender inequity in the workplace by providing women with the services, tools, and professional attire to secure employment and advance their careers. “This organization has long held a special place in my heart. I served on the board of the Seattle chapter in the early 2000s while working as the evening news anchor for Fox13. I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact this organization has on women who are striving to build a better future.”

Last year, Leslie was elected to the Board of Directors for Treasury Wine Estates, a now majority-female Board. “Women are essential to the fabric of the wine industry…In an industry that has historically been male dominated, it’s deeply rewarding to help amplify women’s voices, build their confidence and support their development as leaders and storytellers shaping the future of the wine industry.”