As she stars in the new series The Kings of Napa, the actress contemplates a year of discovery.

Karen LeBlanc

Karen LeBlanc recognizes the parallels between herself and Vanessa King, the matriarch of the family in The Kings of Napa, premiering on OWN and Hulu Live this winter. There’s a focus and drive that propel the two women, plus a steely familial bond. “She loves her family fiercely, and that was something I could relate to,” says LeBlanc. “I love my family and would do anything for them, no questions asked—and so would Vanessa.” LeBlanc shares her favorite Napa wines, travel plans and the lessons of gratitude.

Favorite Napa wineries

Quintessa, Cade Estate Winery and Caymus Vineyards. Janine Sherman Barrois was inspired to create The Kings of Napa when she visited the Rideau Vineyard in Santa Ynez, so I would love to visit one day to see where it all started.

Travel itinerary for 2022

Portugal and Greece, specifically Santorini. The sunsets in Santorini are divine—and add a glass of red wine, looking over the sea… my kind of heaven.

Books you frequently recommend and give to friends

Red Notice by Bill Browder and What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey

Actors you most admire

Cicely Tyson—she’s been a trailblazer for Black women in film. Angela Bassett: When I saw her in What’s Love Got to Do With It, I was awed by her performance. Viola Davis: When I saw her in Doubt, I was left breathless. These powerful women helped give me the courage and inspiration to keep pursuing my dreams.

Mantras for 2022

Stay in gratitude. Stay healthy and happy. Get out of my comfort zone. Take more risks. Keep it moving forward. Raise the bar. Stay kind— you never know what’s going on in someone’s life.