Many of the wine and culinary celebrations traditionally staged in conjunction with major Northwest wine competitions returned this year, with more on the way in 2023. While the pandemic prompted the cancellation of Taste Washington the past three years — the Washington State Wine Commission has it scheduled in 2023 for March 11-12 — it’s been fascinating and heartwarming to … [Read more...] about Ellen on Wine: Northwest competitions, festivals rebound from pandemic pauses
Ellen on Wine: 19th century French chef’s legacy inspires 21st century NW women in hospitality with Les Dames d’Escoffier
Perhaps the hospitality world’s most important service organization dedicated to women continues to pay tribute to one of the most famous chefs France ever produced — a man born in the 19th century. Les Dames d’Escoffier International, an international philanthropic organization, is named for French chef Auguste Escoffier (1846–1935), and the Pacific Northwest is now home to … [Read more...] about Ellen on Wine: 19th century French chef’s legacy inspires 21st century NW women in hospitality with Les Dames d’Escoffier
Barnard Griffin rosé again leads NW producers at San Francisco Chronicle judging
CLOVERDALE, Calif. — Family-owned Barnard Griffin Winery in Richland, Wash., rose to the top of the field of 176 rosé wines as the 2021 Rosé of Sangiovese captured the sweepstakes award at the 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. “Beats a nail in the foot!” quipped founding winemaker Rob Griffin. “I’m pleased that we won with a robust color.” It marked the … [Read more...] about Barnard Griffin rosé again leads NW producers at San Francisco Chronicle judging
Warnshuis realizes dream of Utopia along Oregon’s tiny Ribbon Ridge
NEWBERG, Ore. — Dan Warnshuis is no stranger to hard work, focusing on goals and achieving results, which he's continued at Utopia Vineyard & Winery. He was an All-American swimmer in high school, which earned him a full scholarship to Michigan State University for swimming. After completing college, Warnshuis returned to his home state of California, and it was … [Read more...] about Warnshuis realizes dream of Utopia along Oregon’s tiny Ribbon Ridge
Former Oregon car dealer gears up with Jachter Family Wines
NEWBERG, Ore. — For more than 27 years, Dave Jachter owned and operated successful car dealerships in Oregon. Many in the Willamette Valley may recall his tagline in commercials — “And that’s no bull!” Judging by his hiring of Jared Etzel as winemaker, Jachter is taking plenty of horsepower into the Chehalem Mountains with Jachter Family Wines. Jachter’s business acumen … [Read more...] about Former Oregon car dealer gears up with Jachter Family Wines