LIVERMORE, Calif. – Wente Vineyards, the country’s oldest, continuously operated family-owned winery has achieved another benchmark in their 130th year, taking top honors at numerous prestigious wine competitions both nationally and internationally. Acknowledged for their industry wide contributions and known affectionately as California’s First Family of Chardonnay, Wente Vineyards is widely respected by both critics and consumers alike as a leader in crafting appealing, top quality, appellation driven California wines. This year alone saw 1 Best of Show accolade, 2 Wine Enthusiast Magazine Best Buy commendations, 9 gold medals and 17 silver medals from competitions of the highest caliber.    Starting off 2013, with being named a Hot Brand by M. Shanken’s Impact trade newsletter for achieving at least 10% volume growth in each of the past three calendar years, the road to success was well paved. Every year, Wente Vineyards consistently takes top honors with their Vineyard Selection, Heritage Block, The Nth Degree and Small Lot wine entries. These wines are made with intense precision by Karl D. Wente, Fifth Generation Winemaker, who in 2013 was also named Top 40 under 40 in the wine business by the Wine Enthusiast Magazine.    Other highlights this year included receiving a Beverage Information 2013 Growth Award, for a second time as well as laudable reviews of Wente Vineyards wines from noted wine critic Jancis Robinson, a Decanter Magazine Best of Pinot Noir status for the 2009 Reliz Creek Pinot Noir, and CEO Carolyn Wente being named Vineyard & Winery Management’s Top 20 Most Admired People in the North American wine industry.   Rounding out the year to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Repeal of Prohibition through which the Wente family thrived, was a special fundraiser and lecture at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in October where the Wente family joined the celebration with fellow Prohibition era vintners during a special commemoration.   Competition Highlights Judges at the 33rd annual San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition taste over 4,500 wines before awarding Double Gold, Gold, Silver, Bronze medals. Wente Vineyards’ 2011 Morning Fog Chardonnay, 2010 Charles Wetmore Cabernet Sauvignon, 2010 Sandstone Merlot and 2009 Reliz Creek Pinot Noir all took home Gold Medals this year.   In addition, Wente Vineyards had a successful showing at the San Diego International Wine Competition, where over 1700 wines are judged. This year, the 2011 Morning Fog Chardonnay, 2011 Riverbank Riesling, 2010 Southern Hills Cabernet Sauvignon won silver and two gold medals respectively.    Finally, Wine Enthusiast named the 2011 Morning Fog Chardonnay and the 2011 Louis Mel Sauvignon Blanc (90 points) as 2013 “Best Buys.” This year, only five percent of the wines reviewed earned the title of Best Buy from the Wine Enthusiast editors. All the wines must have an SRP of $15.00 or less and must possess both an extraordinary sense of place as well as impressive price/quality ratios.   “We are honored our wines placed well in so many prestigious competitions this year,” Carolyn Wente, CEO and Fourth Generation Winegrower stated. “It’s important to us to make wines that we’re proud to share with our family, friends and supporters. Knowing others enjoy our wines keeps our 130 year commitment to quality grape growing and winemaking going strong.”   For more information about Wente Vineyards, please visit www.wentevineyards.com. For media inquiries, images or interviews, please contact Kimberly Charles at Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com.  # # #

Portland, OR – River Network, the leading conservation organization for the river and watershed community in the United States, is pleased to announce the appointment of Nicole Silk as President. Silk is a proven conservation leader, with over 25 years of experience including as Managing Director of The Nature Conservancy’s Global Freshwater Team. Her experience building coalitions among global and national institutions influential in the water arena will bring an informed strategic perspective to River Network’s role in the freshwater movement. “Water is essential for each and every one of us. Water, and the rivers it flows through, connects our landscape, drives our economic activities, provides recreational opportunities, and engages our senses. Managing rivers to support nature and people is no easy task, but River Network has proved its value by providing individualized support and needed capacity to local efforts. I look forward to continuing that tradition and expanding our collective impact. I am thrilled to be River Network’s new President,” stated Silk. Silk’s diverse experience includes strategy development and goal setting for projects, public policy efforts from the local to national level, innovative knowledge practices, fundraising, and relationship building of all kinds. Silk earned a BA in Environmental Studies and Economics at University of California, Santa Cruz and a JD at UC Davis. In addition, Silk worked as a river guide for nearly a decade, concurrent with her professional pursuits. Today, she spends as much time as feasible on rivers and enjoying the outdoors with her family.       After a six-month nationwide search, River Network couldn’t be happier with its choice. Board Chair Suzi Wilkins Berl shares, “River Network was conceived in 1988 out of a commitment to conserve rivers through grassroots action. Over our 25-year history, we have had five Presidents lead us. Nicole joins us at a time when the river movement is expanding and our organization is poised to play a more significant role in shaping freshwater issues at home and abroad."   Today’s non-profit executives need to possess a diverse set of skills in problem solving, fundraising, communicating their organizations messages, building strong coalitions and working closely with both board and staff to realize their goals. Silk brings all those skills and more and joins a talented and seasoned team at River Network.   About River Network For twenty-five years, River Network has empowered and united people and communities to protect and restore rivers and other waters that sustain the health of our country. River Network envisions a future when every person knows their watershed and is an active caretaker of their local river, lake, stream or bay. The organization works for the day when all people, fish and wildlife have access to clean plentiful water. The headquarter staff in Portland, OR and field staff in Vermont, Maryland, North Carolina, Utah and Ohio work closely with over 2,000 watershed protection groups from coast to coast – building the capacity of state and local groups, assisting people grappling with water and environmental health problems, protecting habitat for fish, wildlife and people, developing blue cities through green infrastructure, and reducing our country’s use of water and energy.   For media inquiries, interviews and image requests, please contact Suzi Wilkins Berl, River Network Board Chair; 828-250-0017; ennalls@att.net.     #  #  # 

Livermore, CA – Today marks the 80th anniversary of the official Repeal of Prohibition in the United States, the day the 21st Constitutional amendment was ratifiedallowing for the sale, purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages, lifting a ban that had been in place for 13 years from 1920-1933. Advised by their father, founder of the winery Carl H. Wente on the eve of Prohibition, to “not put all their eggs in one basket,” brothers Ernest & Herman set about diversifying their business beyond grape growing and winemaking --- wise words in today’s modern era. During Prohibition the family, who this year celebrates 130 years since their winery’s founding in 1883, sold grapes to home to winemakers (1) sacramental wines to Beaulieu Vineyard who acted as a broker to the church, raisedcattle, hogs, sheep and grew barley and red oat hay. The hay they raised in fact was the preferred feed hay for the Depression era winning Thoroughbred racehorse Seabiscuit during his 1933 – 1947 career. The fact that the Wente family was able to produce wine during Prohibition was unique for a family enterprise at the time, and it later proved to be a business boon as they were well positioned to sell wine on the day of Repeal.    The Wente family is known for many firsts, including being the first winery in California to varietally label its wines, debuting with Sauvignon Blanc in 1934 followed quickly by Chardonnay in 1936. Winningawards at the Golden Gate International Exposition in 1938 and the California State Fair in the 1930s, the winery was well on its way to marketing with the family name and varietals, which has become the standard today. Recently at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in our nation’s capital, the Wente family collaborated on a celebration of 80 years since the Repeal of Prohibition along with four other leading winemaking families from that era. Christine Wente, Fifth Generation Winegrower and President of the Wente Foundation was on hand at the Smithsonian for the events surrounding the anniversary celebration.   For more information, please visit www.wentevineyards.com and for media requests, interviews and images, please contact Kimberly Charles at press@charlescomm.com or 415-701-9463.   #   #   #   [1] The Volstead Act which was the 18th amendment commonly known as the National Prohibition Act allowed for farmers to make certain wines as long as it was non-intoxicating fruit juice for home consumption.  It also allowed for a maximum household production of 200 gallons annually. The Volstead Act also allowed for the sale of sacramental wine to priests & ministers. Source: Wikipedia

San Francisco, CA – The San Francisco Wine School, a provider of world-class wine education and professional development for successful careers in the wine industry, today announced that it has received recognition from the French Wine Society for its 100 percent pass rate on the rigorous French Wine Scholar exam.    The French Wine Scholar Program, developed by the French Wine Society (FWS), is designed to provide current and accurate information on the wine regions of France and validate proficiency in the wines of France. The program consists of ten courses and an exam, that when passed, will earn students the FWS professional wine certificate.   According to the FWS, the average pass rate for this rigorous exam is only 65 percent. "Though hundreds of students take the strenuous French Wine Scholar exam every year, we have only seen one other class achieve a 100 percent pass rate in our history," said Julien Camus, president of the French Wine Society. "What's even more notable is that four of the San Francisco Wine School students passed with Honors and another two passed with Highest Honors. With such an effective program available, San Francisco Wine School students are well prepared to achieve success not only in the exam, but in their professional careers as well."   Although the content of the French Wine Scholar materials is the same for all licensed providers, the San Francisco Wine School structures an in-depth program to deliver the material on the 14 different regions of France in 11 lively and engaging three-hour courses. To reinforce the learning objectives for each course, the school also carefully selects wines to taste and evaluate.    "The San Francisco Wine School instructors and its program design are the secrets to our success," said Glancy. "Our instructors are as passionate about education as they are about wine. We do everything we can to partner with the students throughout the program, ensuring they are successfully navigating and absorbing all of the resources they have available to help them achieve their educational and career goals." The San Francisco Wine School is offering its next French Wine Scholar program beginning January 6th, 2014 in South San Francisco. For more information about the program, David Glancy and the San Francisco Wine School, visit www.sanfranciscowineschool.com.   About San Francisco Wine School  San Francisco Wine School was founded in 2011 by Master Sommelier and Certified Wine Educator, David Glancy. Glancy is one of only 12 people in the world to hold both a Master Sommelier diploma and a Certified Wine Educator credential and is responsible for having trained ten percent of the world's 4000 Certified Sommeliers. His team of industry-leading instructors provides world-class wine education and professional development for successful careers in the wine industry. By bringing all relevant wine credential programs under one roof, students may pursue numerous career path opportunities including hospitality, retail, distribution, journalism, marketing/PR, consulting, education and more. San Francisco Wine School programs are designed for credential exam preparation, however many enthusiasts outside of the wine industry attend to deepen their wine knowledge and appreciation. For more information, look for San Francisco Wine School on Facebook, LinkedIn, Yelp and Twitter.     # # #

Graton, CA – As part of its ongoing commitment to investment in the company’s sales & marketing capabilities, Purple Wine Company is pleased to announce several promotions and new hires. Two key sales managers who have been instrumental in the growth of the company’s sales are being promoted into newly created positions reporting to Michael Mestas, Vice President, National Sales Manager. Carlton Scott, manager of the Mid-Atlantic region, has been promoted to Southern Division Manager, while Lynn Mahlebjian, manager of the Atlantic Region, has been promoted to Northern Division Manager. Two new hires have been brought on board to oversee the Gulf and Southern California regions, Jack Eastman and Ryan Conner. Eastman has been appointed Gulf Region Manager responsible for Texas and Louisiana, and will report to Phillip Armstrong, Central Division Manager. As a top performer in his earlier positions with O’Neill Vintners and Terlato Wines, Eastman has worked managing multiple states, and has a strong sales background in branded and private label wines and spirits. Ryan Conner has been hired as Southern California Area Manager where he will be responsible for sales execution in one of the country’s top wine markets. His past wine experience in Northern California built a proficiency in all aspects of distribution as well as retail and on premise sales. He will report to Rick Dodd, Western Division Manager. In the marketing arena, Jeff Lubin has been hired as Vice President, Marketing reporting to Executive Vice President of Marketing, Lisa Ehrlich. Lubin comes to Purple Wine Company with over three decades of wine industry experience ranging from retail and distributor wine sales to brand building and strategic marketing. After a decade in various positions with Franciscan Wine Estates/Icon Estates, he moved to Delicato Family Vineyards where he worked on the Gnarly Head and Brazin brands.  Lubin will focus on brand marketing for Purple Wine Company as Ehrlich’s expanded role covers a broader marketing focus for both Purple and Sonoma Wine Companies. “These new hires and promotions cement our commitment to strengthening the company and injecting new energy and enthusiasm as we position our brands for future growth,” commented the company’s Owner and CEO Derek Benham. About Purple Wine Company Purple Wine Company was founded in 2001 by Derek Benham and is based in Graton, California and was named to Inc. Magazine’s top 5,000 companies in 2012. Its mission is to create wines of outstanding quality and consistent style from vintage to vintage. The wines are bottled by its sister production company, Sonoma Wine Company using thoughtful and award-winning water and energy conservation practices while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Current brands include: Alto Cinco, Avalon, BEX, Four Vines and Cryptic. Both Avalon and Four Vines were named Hot Prospect Brands by M. Shanken’s Impact Newsletter in 2012, tracking the most promising wine and spirits growth brands in the marketplace. For more information, please visit www.purplewine.com. For press inquiries and images, please contact Kimberly Charles at Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415.701.9463.  #  #  #

San Francisco, CA – David Glancy, founder of San Francisco Wine School (SFWS), the Bay Area’s leading provider of wine education and certification programs, has added Roland Micu, MS to their esteemed team of instructors.   Roland Micu is a graduate of the International Culinary Center’s Certified Sommelier program, founded by Glancy, and is currently one of the world’s youngest Master Sommeliers. In addition, he was named the TopNewSomm 2012, winning the Guild of Sommeliers’ annual competition for professionals under 30 years of age.   Says Micu, "I am thrilled to be joining the SF Wine School and honored to be working with David Glancy, whom I've had the privilege of learning from when I first began my studies in wine. David was a major inspiration for me; had I not experienced his program six short years ago, I most likely would have never discovered the hidden passion I have for wine/culture, which I am so grateful for today." Glancy added, “We are very pleased to bring a third Master Sommelier to our team, but we are even more excited to present our students with such a great role model in Roland Micu. His career path is inspirational and he is an energetic, passionate and engaging instructor.”   San Francisco Wine School continues to utilize innovation to offer industry professionals and wine enthusiasts several methods to begin or continue their wine education. SFWS’s newest program, California Wine Appellation Specialist® ONLINE, launched September 30th. This first of its kind, interactive, online certification program offers a comprehensive series of courses featuring the unique wines and wine regions of California. The program starts again December 2nd. See www.sfwineschool.comfor a full list of winter programs available. About San Francisco Wine School The San Francisco Wine School was launched in June 2011 by Master Sommelier, David Glancy.  His team of industry leading instructors provides world-class wine education and professional development for successful careers in the wine industry. By bringing all relevant wine credential programs under one roof, students may pursue numerous career path opportunities including hospitality, retail, distribution, journalism, marketing/PR, consulting, education and more. San Francisco Wine School programs are designed for credential exam preparation, however many enthusiasts outside of the wine industry attend to deepen their wine knowledge and appreciation. For more information, look for San Francisco Wine School on Facebook, LinkedIn, Yelp and Twitter. About Founder, David Glancy  David Glancy is one of only 135 in North America, and 211 in the world, to earn the title Master Sommelier (MS). He received his MS in 2004 and is one of only 12 MS in the world to also pass the Society of Wine Educators’ Certified Wine Educator exam (CWE). In addition, Glancy passed the Certified Specialist of Spirits exam (CSS) and French Wine Scholar exam (FWS). Glancy currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Society of Wine Educators.  Previously, he created, managed and taught the Certified Sommelier Program at the Professional Culinary Institute (now known as International Culinary Center California), where he guided over 400 students through success on the Certified Sommelier (CS) credential.     # # #

Forest Grove, OR  - SakéOne, an Oregon craft saké producer and fine saké importer, has announced the appointment of Brian Lynch to the position of Western National Sales Manager. Lynch will be responsible for leading the sales effort for the company’s saké portfolio in the western half of the U.S. market. Lynch has over 27 years of beverage industry experience including most recently nine years in regional and national sales management positions at Wilson Daniels, Ltd. Prior to Wilson Daniels, Lynch managed the Central U.S. sales division for Caravelle Wine Selections. Lynch has also held sales positions with Marquis Selections, Federated Distributors, and Illinois Wholesale Liquors. “SakéOne’s continued steady growth in the fine saké category necessitated additional sales leadership and Brian brings a proven set of beverage sales management skills to our team,” said Steve Vuylsteke, SakéOne President and CEO.  “I am proud and excited to join SakéOne and assist the current team in increasing placements, volume and awareness of this rapidly growing and exciting segment of the beverage alcohol business,” stated Lynch. About SakéOne SakéOne is America’s first craft saké producer and compliments its own fine products with a growing portfolio of fine Japanese saké imports. Its Oregon craft saké brands Momokawa, Moonstone, and g Saké are joined by import brands Murai Family, Yoshinogawa, Kasumi Tsuru, SakéMoto, and Tombo. A leader committed to saké education at the wholesale, retail and consumer levels, SakéOne is focused on expanding the enjoyment of premium saké in the United States. For more information, visit SakéOne’s website at sakeone.com. For images and media inquiries, contact Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415|701-9463. # # #

Graton, CA –  After a vigorous review process, Sonoma Wine Company’s Graton, CA facility has attained the prestigious ISO 9001 certification. The ISO series is the only certification that is recognized as an internationally consistent standard and allows companies to do business in a global market. A company that meets ISO 9001 standards must demonstrate management excellence, well-documented operating procedures, and continual improvement of products and processes. In order to achieve this certification, the Graton facility passed a rigorous five-day audit consisting of a comprehensive review of operating procedures and documentation, as well as a physical site inspection. This achievement compliments the company’s previous ISO 22000 certification received in 2010 for their facility in American Canyon, California. Both ISO certifications require well-defined and documented Quality Management Systems, and include Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) food safety programs which qualify facilities to handle imported bulk wine. “Our investment in the ISO management system instills a culture of quality without stifling innovation,” commented Sonoma Wine Company Owner & CEO Derek Benham. “The emphasis on continuous improvement gives our clients assurance we will always strive for increasing quality, consistency and customer service.” Sonoma Wine Company is a full-service crush-to-bottle contract winery partnering with California wine producers to crush, ferment, barrel, bottle and warehouse wine programs of all sizes. With five modern facilities located in both Sonoma and Napa counties, the company can accommodate any size program. With superior customer service and a wide array of state of the art equipment, over two million gallons of stainless cooperage, and four modern bottling lines, the facilities can tailor services and highly experienced staff to match client’s programs so that clients can spend time connecting with distributors, building a customer base, and growing brands. The attainment of ISO 22000 and ISO 9001 certification also allows Sonoma Wine Company the ability to store and bottle bulk-imported wines. The winery’s sustainability program is notable for innovations in water and energy efficiency and as a result, the winery has been singled out for numerous awards. Sonoma Wine Company is certified by the California Sustainable Wine Growing Alliance with the Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing (CCSW) certification.  For more information about Sonoma Wine Company’s services, please contact Natasha Granoff at ngranoff@sonomawineco.com or 707-829-6104. For media queries, please contact Kimberly Charles of Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415-701-9463.   #   #   #

Healdsburg, CA – In the finale episode of Bravo’s hit competitive cooking show, Top Chef Masters Season 5, which aired last night, Chef Douglas Keane of Healdsburg, California, wins the grand prize of $100,000, earning the title of ‘Top Chef Master.’ In addition to the grand prize, Keane earned an extra $20,000 on the show in previous episodes, earning a grand total of $120,000. In total, Keane won two quick fire challenges and three elimination challenges throughout the season.   All of Keane’s earnings will go towards his charity of choice, Green Dog Rescue Project, a Sonoma County-based organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and finding loving homes for at risk dogs. Keane is the Co-founder of the organization.   About Chef Douglas Keane Based in the bucolic wine country of Healdsburg, California, Chef Douglas Keane is the owner of the Healdsburg Bar & Grill and Co-founder of Green Dog Rescue Project. Aside from winning Top Chef Masters Season 5, Keane has earned two Michelin stars, a four-star review from the San Francisco Chronicle and numerous local and national awards. For more information on Chef Douglas Keane, visit www.chefdouglaskeane.com.   About Green Dog Rescue Project  Green Dog Rescue Project is a non-profit organization that rescues dogs at risk of being euthanized, rehabilitates then in a pack setting, and finds them loving homes. Their mission is to revolutionize the animal welfare world by using a nature-based approach. They provide education in bridging the gap between the languages of dogs and humans by offering workshops, pre-surrender counseling, pre-adoption counseling and post-adoption support for at risk dogs.   For more information about Green Dog Rescue Project, visit www.greendogproject.com.   For media inquiries, please contact Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415.701.9463. # # #

***MEDIA ALERT*** MEDIA ALERT *** MEDIA ALERT *** MEDIA ALERT ***   WHO: America’s premium saké company, SakéOne, will hold its annual kura blessing Saturday, September 28th, 2013.     WHAT: This symbolic, community ceremony with ancient Shinto roots is designed to cleanse the brewery for the year to come. Admission to the spiritual kura blessing is free and will be open to the public. The event has always served to raise awareness of Japanese culture and tradition in the local community. The Shinto ceremony will be presided over by the Reverend Koichi Barrish of the Tsubaki Grand Shrine of Granite Falls, Washington, who uses a specialty brew for the occasion. Afterwards, guests can enjoy saké, Wassabi’s Japanese-fusion cuisine and an exhilarating taiko performance by Portland Taiko, an Asian-American drumming ensemble.     Following the blessing, there will be a unique tasting at the kura in honor of International Saké Day, which is on October 1st. A flight of three award-winning Daiginjo sakés will be available for purchase ($10 per person).  WHEN: The ceremony will be held from 10am-12pm, and the saké tasting will begin at 12pm and end at 4pm on Saturday, September 28, 2013. For more information, please contact 503-357-7056 x235 or email tastingroom@sakeone.com or click here. WHERE: The events will be held at SakéOne’s brewery at 820 Elm Street in Forest Grove, Oregon.     VISUALS: To view a video of a kura blessing, where Reverend Koichi Barrish drizzles saké and tosses flower petals to cleanse the brewery, please click here.     MORE: SakéOne was founded in 1992 as a joint partnership with Momokawa Brewing Japan originally as an importer, later to be the original American operated Kura (brewery). SakéOne is the leading producer of “Ginjo” (premium) grade sake in the United States and today produces premium sakés under the Momokawa and G labels as well as innovative new products, such as the fruit-flavor infused saké under the Moonstone brand, in addition to its imported brands. Most recently, SakéOne released SakéMoto, a smooth and slightly dry saké with rice from the Yamaguchi prefecture, Kasumi Tsuru, a Kimoto style saké, as well as their newest American produced genshu saké, g fifty. SakéOne distributes its saké in all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, South America and the Caribbean. A leader committed to saké education at the wholesale, retail and consumer levels, SakéOne is focused on expanding the enjoyment of premium saké in the United States. For more information, visit SakéOne’s website at sakeone.com.  CONTACT: For additional information and interviews, please contact Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415|701-9463.    #   #   #

NAPA, CA Beringer Vineyards will be hosting a special event on Saturday, September 28th, 2013 from 11 AM - 4 PM spotlighting its new wine and chocolate pairing offerings, featuring tours, tastings and a baking demo by James Beard award winning chef, Joanne Weir.    This spring Beringer Vineyards announced a partnership with Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker to establish a premium wine and chocolate tasting room at Beringer’s historic winery and estate in Napa Valley, California. Located on the winery’s beautiful historic grounds, the tasting room will be open to the public and will provide guided chocolate and wine pairing events.   Chocolate and wine pairing events will offer guests an experience that is both indulgent and educational, while honoring the innovation and hospitality that began in 1934 with Beringer being one of the first wineries in Napa Valley to offer public tours. Participants will discover how wine and chocolate flavors develop together, and how the artisan chocolates and wines are crafted.  Each guest will taste at least three different Scharffen Berger® chocolates, each expertly paired with a Beringer wine that has complementary flavor notes.   “We are always looking for new ways to delight our guests with fun, sensory experiences.” said Sandy Paoli, General Manager of Beringer Vineyards. “The pairing of our varied and acclaimed range of wines with Scharffen Berger chocolates is a great way for visitors to discover and enjoy new flavors.”   "I am thrilled that Scharffen Berger chocolates will be available at the Beringer Winery.  It is only a mile or so from Stony Hill where I had my first job in the wine and food world and it seems like the chocolate is coming home," said John Scharffenberger.   Scharffen Berger chocolate’s signature portfolio of chocolate bars, tasting squares and baking chocolates will be available for purchase, along with an array of Beringer wines. Guests will also receive a complimentary wine and chocolate pairing guide that will allow them to replicate the experience at home to share with friends and family.   For additional information about the Chocolate and Wine Tasting Room and tasting events, visit www.beringer.com or call 1-866-708-9463. For more information about Scharffen Berger chocolates, visit: www.scharffenberger.com.   About Beringer Vineyards The epitome of a modern classic, Beringer has been Napa Valley's benchmark producer since its establishment in 1876. Winemaker Laurie Hook crafts classic wines from Napa's finest appellations and Beringer's exceptional collection of vineyards. A winemaking legacy of 134 years is reflected in an acclaimed portfolio of wines which are collected worldwide. The historic estate in St. Helena offers a tradition of hospitality that defines the Napa Valley. About Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker was established in 1997 in San Francisco, California, and first earned national recognition for its artisan-quality chocolate in 1998.  Producing bean to bar premium chocolates, Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker is one of the world's finest chocolate makers.  All Scharffen Berger chocolate is composed of proprietary bean blends from up to nine different cacao-growing regions throughout the world.  Scharffen Berger chocolate has received recognition throughout the U.S. for its high quality chocolate.  # # #

Healdsburg, CAThe Green Dog Rescue Project, a Sonoma County-based organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and finding loving homes for at risk dogs, is pleased to announce that funds have been raised for the organization as a result of locally based Chef Douglas Keane’s Top Chef Masters Season 5 participation and charitable designation and the Funny Bones Comedy Show Fundraiser in early August. Chef Douglas Keane, Co-Founder of the Green Dog Rescue Project, is currently competing on the fifth season of Top Chef Masters, Bravo’s hit competitive cooking competition, which features 13 world-renowned, award-winning chefs from around the country competing to raise funds for a charity of their choice. The public can also help fundraise by voting online for their fan favorite here. Keane is now one of the five finalists on the show, making him a candidate to win the $100,000 grand prize towards the charity of his choice, Green Dog Rescue.   Green Dog Rescue’s fundraising event on August 3, the Funny Bones Comedy Show at the Raven Theater in Healdsburg, raised an additional $9,000.  The event included wine tasting and a lively comedy show, bringing together the entire animal-loving Healdsburg community for the cause.   Continuing it’s fundraising efforts, Green Dog Rescue hosts a weekly viewing party for the community to watch Top Chef Masters every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Healdsburg Bar & Grill: 245 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, CA 95448. Raffles and other activities occur during the viewing. New episodes of Bravo’s Top Chef Masters premiere Wednesdays at 10pm ET/PT.   About Green Dog Rescue Project Green Dog Rescue Project is a non-profit organization that rescues dogs at risk of being euthanized, rehabilitates then in a pack setting, and finds them loving homes. Their mission is to revolutionize the animal welfare world by using a nature-based approach. They provide education in bridging the gap between the languages of dogs and humans by offering workshops, pre-surrender counseling, pre-adoption counseling and post-adoption support for at risk dogs.     For more information about Green Dog Rescue Project, visit www.greendogproject.com.   For media inquiries, please contact Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415.701.9463.     # # #

San Francisco, CA - As Charles Communications Associates (CCA) continues its yearlong celebration of its 10thyear anniversary, we are proud to share our client roster and a promotion announcement for the summer of 2013. The list of CCA’s current clients is as follows:   Avalon, Napa, CA Balverne Winery, Windsor, CA* Beni di Batasiolo, Piedmont, IT Bex Riesling, Mosel Saar Ruwer, Germany Bunnery Natural Foods, Jackson Hole, WY Chef Elizabeth Binder, Napa, CA Four Vines Winery, Paso Robles, CA Green Dog Rescue Project, Healdsburg, CA* Hourglass Vineyards, Napa, CA The Wines of Lodi, Lodi, CA Murrieta’s Well, Livermore, CA Parallel Vineyards, Napa Valley, CA Purple Wine Company, Graton, CA River Network, CA SakéOne, Forest Grove, OR Scharffen Berger Tasting Rooms, Healdsburg, CA & Napa, CA* Wente Vineyards, Livermore, CA Wines of Uruguay, Uruguay* (September 2013 event)   * Denotes new as of our last quarterly announcement   CCA is also pleased to announce that Skye Morgan has been promoted to Senior Account Manager. Morgan joined the company in the summer of 2011 and this is her second promotion. She brings energy, enthusiasm and great skills to her role and continues to lead accounts with creativity and results. “It’s wonderful to have a team member such as Skye grow and thrive at CCA, she cares about our clients as if they were her own business, and what more could anyone ask for in business?” stated founder, Kimberly Noelle Charles.      Please feel free to reach out to the CCA team as a resource for any needs by contactingpress@charlescomm.com or 415|701-9463.   For further information and background, visit CCA’s website at www.charlescomm.com. Stay tuned for CCA’s new website, coming early Fall 2013.   About Charles Communications Associates Founded in 2003, Charles Communications Associates, LLC (CCA) is an independent creative marketing communications and public relations firm based in San Francisco, California, that helps local and global companies create, build and launch brands. Recognized as one of the most effective PR firms in the wine industry, CCA is also known for success in the gourmet, natural and organic food and beverage categories, as well as for top shelf spirits and luxury products marketing. In 2013, CCA formed a strategic alliance with Cornerstone Communications Ltd in New York City and McCue Marketing Communications in Los Angeles to better provide clients with contacts and a network in two of the most important media markets in the country.   # # #

Healdsburg, CA – Balverne Winery, hailing from a 710-acre historical property sharing the Russian River and Chalk Hill AVAs, has launched a new series of wines in select U.S. markets this summer. Featuring wines crafted by noted Sonoma County based winemaker, Margaret Davenport, the inaugural launch includes a 2012 Rose of Sangiovese, Chalk Hill designated ($19.99 SRP), a 2012 Russian River Sauvignon Blanc ($24.99), and a 2012 Russian River Chardonnay ($24.99). A 2010 Russian River Pinot Noir produced by Davenport’s predecessor winemaker Julie Lumgair completes the portfolio ($34.99 SRP). Currently these wines are distributed in CA, NY, FL, IL, TX, NJ and MN. As the brand increases inaugural production, more states will be added to the distribution network.    History Balverne wines hail from the Windsor Oaks Vineyard property, which was originally part of the Rancho Sotoyome land grant of 1841 and was later acquired by Antonio Perelli-Minetti, who was the first to plant grapes on the site. In the 1920’s, the estate was used as a summer residence, then purchased in 1972, replanted to grapes and winemaking was begun under the name Balverne.  Balverne was a well-known wine brand throughout the 1980s, when it was poured at the White House and served in the finest restaurants across the country. The wines were made by two young Davis graduates, Doug Nalle and John Kongsgaard.   In 1992, the property was purchased by its current owner, Bob Stein, who renamed the property Windsor Oaks Vineyards. The property was successfully managed as a vineyard, selling fruit to over 35 highly regarded wineries throughout the state. Winemaking resumed on the property in 2005 under the Windsor Oaks name and in 2012, Bob and his wife, Renee, made the decision to honor the legacy of their beloved property by re-introducing the Balverne name. Today, the wines are produced byrenowned winemaker, Margaret Davenport, and original winemaker, Doug Nalle, has joined the team as consulting winemaker. Today Today in addition to providing top quality grapes for the Balverne line of wines, the property, which has 50 blocks within its 225 acres of vines, continues to sell grapes to a number of well regarded wineries within Sonoma County including Flowers, Rockwall and Sonoma Cutrer to name a few. A significant portion of the acreage on the property was given over to open space in participation with the Sonoma County Open Space District. Designated Forever Wild, this part of the property forms a natural greenbelt and riparian corridor where many flora and fauna thrive. In tribute to that fact, the Steins have a majestic Red Tailed Hawk design on their label, created by noted artist Bob Johnson. Red Tailed Hawks preside over the expansive property, acting as nature’s solution to vineyard pests.   Launch  Earlier this past August, members of the media were invited to an elegant luncheon served at one of the property’s many stunning overlooks. Curated by Renee Stein, a lifestyle consultant and interior designer in addition to being a co-proprietor of the property, the design and décor reflected the Provencal sensibility that is Sonoma country living. Guests were also treated to an “air show” by several local hawks and falcons in tribute to the red tailed hawk on the Balverne label and the Forever Wild designation on the land.  For more information on the property and the wines, please visit http://www.balverne.com. For media inquiries, images and interviews, please contact press@charlescomm.com or Skye Morgan or Kimberly Charles at 415| 701-9463.   #   #   #

San Francisco, CA – The membership of the Washington, DC based Society of Wine Educators has elected San Francisco Wine School’s founder and CEO, David Glancy, to their Board of Directors. Of their 15 Directors, two are now Master Sommeliers (including Glancy) and one is a Master of Wine. In addition to launching the San Francisco Wine School in June 2011, Glancy also runs SFsommelier Consulting, is on the Editorial Advisory Board of the Sommelier Journal and is Echanson Provincial (wine guy) for the Chaine des Rotisseurs Pacific Northwest. Previously, he created, managed and taught the Certified Sommelier Program at the Professional Culinary Institute (now known as International Culinary Center California). During that time, he secured the partnership for the school with the Court of Master Sommeliers and helped over 400 students pass the Court of MS’ Certified Sommelier exam (CS). Glancy also taught wine and business management at Le Cordon Bleu’s California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. He has worked in the wine industry for over 20 years, throughout the U.S. and Asia and has traveled to many of the major wine regions of the world.   Glancy is one of only 132 Master Sommeliers in North America, and 201 in the world, he has also passed the Society of Wine Educators’ Certified Wine Educator Exam (CWE), the Certified Specialist of Spirits Exam (CSS) and French Wine Scholar Exam (FWS).   About San Francisco Wine School Master Sommelier, David Glancy, launched the San Francisco Wine School in June 2011, which serves to provide world-class wine education and professional training for successful wine careers. Bringing all relevant credential programs under one roof, students are offered a number of career path choices in the wine business. A roster of top instructors offers up in-depth certification programs on a frequent basis. Online registration is now available for the September class of California Wine Appellation Specialist® (online or in-class) and Certified Specialist of Wine.   About The Society of Wine Educators The Society of Wine Educators was founded in 1977. It is a non-profit educational organization whose mission is to advance wine education through professional development and certification. They offer several programs: ­the Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW), Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS), Certified Wine Educator (CWE), and Hospitality/Beverage Specialist Certificate (HBSC). These are internationally recognized and highly regarded in the wine and spirits industry.   For more information, please visit www.sfwineschool.com, look for San Francisco Wine School on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter or contact David Glancy, MS, CWE, CSS, FWS at dglancy@sfwineschool.com or 415|779-2397.   #   #   #