SEATTLE — Ackley Beverage Group, a private equity company based in Seattle, reinforced its partnership with Montinore Estate in Oregon’s Willamette Valley by acquiring 44-acre Merriman Vineyard. Great Northwest Wine learned of the sale Monday in advance of today’s announcement. Terms of the sale were not disclosed. “We are impressed with the number of outstanding … [Read more...] about Seattle’s Ackley Beverage buys Oregon vineyard in Yamhill-Carlton
Walla Walla wine industry appoints Heather Unwin as executive director
WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Heather Unwin has been teaching a wine marketing class at Walla Walla Community College. Soon, she’ll be spreading the gospel as executive director of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance. Unwin, 57, was announced Monday to replace Duane Wollmuth, who died of a heart attack July 11. Her first day on the job is Jan. 3. “The Walla Walla Valley has this … [Read more...] about Walla Walla wine industry appoints Heather Unwin as executive director
Roots for Viognier continue to grow throughout Northwest wine
Rhône varieties continue to build an audience with growers, winemakers and consumers in the Pacific Northwest, and Viognier was among the early arrivals. Viognier’s fame stems from the wines of Condrieu, the French appellation along the Rhône Valley's right bank south of Lyon. While Syrah goes down as the historic planting in Washington state with grower Mike Sauer … [Read more...] about Roots for Viognier continue to grow throughout Northwest wine
D.C. judges name Michelle Brut best U.S. oyster wine
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Michelle Sparkling Wine’s nonvintage Brut was announced Friday as the Best American Wine at the 22nd annual Old Ebbitt Grill International Wines for Oysters Competition staged in the nation's capital. Eakin's flagship methode Champenoise bottling for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates is made using Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris from the Columbia Valley. … [Read more...] about D.C. judges name Michelle Brut best U.S. oyster wine
Sheri Morano grows from grape juice into Master of Wine
WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Sheri Morano’s aura of approachability and lack of pretentiousness belie the fact that she carries the most prestigious title in her industry - Master of Wine. “My mother likes to joke that I was weaned on grape juice,” Morano says. “I’m actually not kidding. That is a true family story.” Morano, who lives in North Carolina, spent last week in … [Read more...] about Sheri Morano grows from grape juice into Master of Wine