Hollywood and Vine: Celebrities Join Wine Business

Jonathan Smith (Lil John)

Besides fame, what do Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, soccer athlete David Beckham, actor Angelina Jolie, and rapper/producer Jonathan Smith, better known by stage name Lil John, have in common? They are winemakers.

Whether as vintner partners or vineyard owners, the world's rich and famous are making their mark in the wine industry.  Beyond the notion of entering the industry as a chic hobby, celebrity vintners are making high quality, award-winning wines.

In 2009, Smith, who owns Little Jonathan Wine Company with winemaker Alison Crowe, surprised the industry by winning a silver medal at the Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition for his Central Coast Chardonnay. 

Could this be a new trend?  

Click HERE for a featured article in MSNBC. Click HERE for an AOL Daily Finance interview with Smith discussing his wine business venture.