Livermore Valley, CA- Wente Vineyards is proud to present The Front Porch Music Festival. In it’s second year (formerly known as BottleRockit), Karl Wente welcomes indie music darlings The Mountain Goats and the Dodos to the stage. Karl will also perform with his own band, The Front Porch, earlier in the day and shares the bill with other well-known artists in the Americana/Bluegrass genre. This is the first show on The Mountain Goat’s seventeen-date national tour in support of their highly anticipated new record. Both the Dodos and The Front Porch have just released new records as well. The lineup of the bands performing this year include: The Mountain Goats The Dodos Jerry Hannan Band The Front Porch Wolf Hamlin with the Front Porch Drifters Crawdad Republic Garage Band Academy Karl Wente explains, “these shows actually all started on the front porch of my house.  Bands and artists that were rolling through the area would end up back at my place for dinner, hanging out and jamming with my band. It’s really just about bringing people together... good music, wine and friends.” Just 45 miles east of San Francisco, the Livermore Valley makes the ultimate music festival destination, with its picturesque setting of rolling vineyards and hills. Wente states, “the Bay Area has some of the most original and interesting independent bands, and what better way to enjoy them than with a glass of wine and surrounded by the serene beauty of the Livermore Valley”.  In true festival form, the winery will have two different venues on property for the concurrent performances, one on the front lawn, where guests will be able to enjoy the afternoon with chairs and blankets, and another in the barrel room, with the sounds of two top local DJ’s. Wente Vineyards has also been an avid proponent of the arts and has had a long history of supporting their community. The festival will feature local food vendors, as well as regionally based musicians. In addition, a percentage of the event’s profit will go toward the Wente Family Foundation for Arts Education, which provides support for arts education programs in the Livermore Valley and throughout the United States. The event will be held Saturday September 1, 2012 at the Wente Vineyards Estate Tasting Room and Winery  (5565 Tesla Road - Livermore, CA 94550) from 3pm-9pm. Food, wine and beer will be available for purchase. Tickets for the outstanding lineup are only $20 and can be purchased at ticketweb.com or by calling the Wente Vineyards Box Office at 925-456-2424; tickets will be $30 at the door. About Wente Vineyards Founded in 1883, Wente Vineyards is the oldest continuously operated, family-owned winery in the country; owned and managed by the fourth and fifth generations of the Wente family. The winery draws from nearly 3,000 acres of Estate vineyards in the Livermore Valley, San Francisco Bay and Arroyo Seco, Monterey appellations to create an outstanding portfolio of fine wines. Wente Vineyards is distributed in all 50 states and in over 70 countries worldwide.  In 2010, Wente Vineyards was among the first wineries to receive the Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing designation, and one of the only wineries to certify every aspect of its business. In 2011, Wente Family Estates was named American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast and a top 30 wine company by Wine Business Monthly. 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the Wente family bringing Chardonnay cuttings to California. Today, the Wente clone of Chardonnay is the most widely planted in California. Located just east of San Francisco in the historic Livermore Valley, Wente Vineyards is recognized as one of California’s premier wine country destinations. The property features wine tasting, world-class concerts, award-winning fine dining and championship golf. For more information, visit www.wentevineyards.com. For media inquiries, please contact Skye Morgan of Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or (415) 701-9463. # # #

Calistoga, CA—Bennett Lane Winery just announced the launch of their “Name the Bennett Lane Balloon” contest, in which the winery’s fans, followers and members of the public of legal drinking age are invited to submit names for Napa Valley's first winery branded hot air balloon via social media. Winery owners Randy and Lisa Lynch will choose the winning name, which will be announced at a press conference at the balloon’s official launch on Wednesday, August 15th, as well as on the winery’s website, Facebook and Twitter accounts. The person who submits the winning name will receive several fantastic rewards, including an hour-long flight for two over Napa Valley in the new balloon, a complimentary reserve wine tasting, and a sleek, fitted black jacket and hat emblazoned with the Bennett Lane Winery logo. Entries for the name will be taken starting today on the winery’s website at the page accessible via this link. Participants and the public are invited to keep up with the contest by visiting the winery's Facebook fan page, and by following Bennett Lane Winery on Twitter at @BennettLane and searching for the #nametheballoon hashtag. The contest will be closed for submissions at 5 pm on Sunday, August 12th. The winning name will be announced by special guest, baseball legend Tony La Russa, at the winery’s official balloon launch on August 15th. Bennett Lane will also be tracking the flight of the balloon from the Czech Republic, where it was made by Kubicek Balloons, as it is delivered to the Napa Valley. You can also track the voyage of the balloon, which stands 67 feet high and has an envelope capacity of over 140,00 cubic feet of air, by following @BennettLane on Twitter. About Bennett Lane Winery Founded by Randy and Lisa Lynch in 2003, Bennett Lane’s off-the-beaten track location and friendly tasting room offer visitors to Napa a “secret gem” and a great way to learn about—and try—some of Napa’s best wines in a more intimate setting. Bennett Lane’s wines include: a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($55); a limited production Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, ($95); Maximus ($35)—a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Malbec and Petit Verdot—“a red feasting wine”; Los Carneros Reserve Chardonnay ($45); White Maximus, a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Muscat ($28) and a limited production Port-style Dessert Wine ($60). Located at 3340 Highway 128, approximately two miles north of Calistoga, Bennett Lane’s tasting room is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:30 p.m. by appointment. Tours may be made in advance by calling 707.942.6684, or toll free at 1.877.629.6272. For more information please contact media relations representative Katie Hunter at Charles Communications Associates at Katie@charlescomm.com, 415-701-9463; or Stefanie Longton, General Manager of Bennett Lane Winery at 877-629-6272. # # #

  Supporting the Community and Highlighting Talented, Local San Francisco Bay Area Musicians Livermore, CA- On July 14, 2012 Wente Vineyards held the first The Front Porch presents Homegrown concert at their sixth annual independent music series. This successful event brought in fans from all over the Bay Area. Local artists, Loquat and Jerry Hannan got the crowd on their feet with memorable performances. Karl Wente and his band, The Front Porch, also debuted their first album, Evermore, at the event. Wente’s band will perform again, alongside San Francisco’s The Stone Foxes, at the series’ next concert on August 4th. WHO: Wente Vineyards and Fifth Generation Winemaker, Karl Wente, invites the public to enjoy The Front Porch and Bay Area favorite The Stone Foxes perform on stage. WHAT: This is the second Wente Vineyards’ Front Porch presents Homegrown summer concert in 2012. The annual series supports the community, as well as promotes local Bay Area talent in a fun, social environment. Attendees bring blankets and chairs, enjoy their own picnic dinner or a catered meal by Catering at Wente Vineyards and enjoy live music under the sun in the heart of the Livermore Valley. Tickets are available now at ticketweb.com: $10 general public/$7.50 Wente Club Members; tickets are $15 at the door. WHEN:  Saturday, August 4th, 2012 5:00pm to 9:00pm WHERE: Wente Vineyards Estate Winery & Tasting Room 5565 Tesla Road - Livermore, CA 94550 MORE: Talented musician and Fifth Generation Winemaker, Karl D. Wente, has always been an avid proponent of the pairing of music and wine. The ability for the two to intertwine and compliment each other is something truly unique. A gifted musician in his own right, Karl and the entire Wente family have long supported local Bay Area talent and have provided this special series as a stage to promote this venture. CONTACT: For more information or to RSVP, please contact Skye Morgan of Charles Communications Associates at 415-701-9463 or skye@charlescomm.com. # # #

Livermore Valley, CA – This lineup of compelling upcoming events from Wente Vineyards offers many ways to enjoy the beauty of Summer. Art showings, special tastings, garden tours and concerts create opportunities to delight the tastes of every wine, food and music enthusiast. Activities at Wente Vineyards from July through September, 2012 include: July   Artist Reception- Photography by Dave Rice Sunday, July 8th 1:00pm-3:00pm Estate Winery Tasting Room Join Wente Vineyards for a reception showcasing photography by local artist, Dave Rice. Artwork will be on display in the Estate Winery Tasting Room through July. Come meet the artist and enjoy the incredible wines by Wente Vineyards. For more information call 925-456-2305. Chef’s Summer Garden Tour and Tasting Tuesday, July 10th,  10:30 am-12:00pm The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards Join Executive Chef Matt Greco and Master Gardener Diane Dovholuk for an exclusive tour of The Restaurant’s ½ acre organic production garden. During the tour Diane will provide insight into the foundation of the garden, its soil, French intensive and organic practices applied and the many heirloom varieties grown. Chef Matt will take ingredients harvested that morning and prepare a delicious tasting, illustrating The Restaurant’s ingredient-driven wine country cuisine paired with a sampling of Wente Vineyards wine. Be inspired with many ideas and techniques to incorporate into your own garden. Only $20 per person, $15 for Club Wente Members. Space is limited and reservations are required. Call 925.456.2450 or purchase tickets online. Stay for lunch and enjoy a special two course meal straight from the garden for $19.   Yoga & Wine Series Thursday, July 12th, 5:00pm–7:00 p.m. Vineyard Lawn at Wente Vineyards Come unwind with Karl Wente for yoga & wine. The yoga class is led by local instructor, Suzanna Spring of Cosmic Dog Yoga Studio, followed by wine tasting with Karl Wente. Please bring your own mat. Purchase your tickets in advance here. $20 in advance / $25 at door (per person), $15 for Club Wente Members * Event may be cancelled due to rain.   The Front Porch Presents Homegrown Saturday, July 14th , 5:00pm–9:00pm Wente Vineyards Estate Winery Join us for a showcase of local Bay Area musical talent paired with Wente Vineyards’ award-winning wines, food and outdoor fun. This July, enjoy the music of Rock/Blues/Folk artist Davy Knowles and Karl Wente’s band, The Front Porch. Pre-sale tickets at ticketweb for $10 per person, or $15 at the door. Club Wente members may purchase tickets for $7.50, or $10 at the door..   August   Chef’s Summer Garden Tour and Tasting Tuesday, August 7th, 10:30am-12:00pm The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards Join Executive Chef Matt Greco and Master Gardener Diane Dovholuk for an exclusive tour of The Restaurant’s ½ acre organic production garden. During the tour Diane will provide insight into the foundation of the garden, its soil, French intensive and organic practices applied and the many heirloom varieties grown. Chef Matt will take ingredients harvested that morning and prepare a delicious tasting, illustrating The Restaurant’s ingredient-driven wine country cuisine paired with a sampling of Wente Vineyards wine. Be inspired with many ideas and techniques to incorporate into your own garden. Only $20 per person, $15 for Club Wente Members. Space is limited and reservations are required. Call 925.456.2450 or purchase tickets online.   The Front Porch Presents Homegrown Saturday, August 4th, 5:00pm– 9:00pm Wente Vineyards Estate Winery Join us for a showcase of local Bay Area musical talent paired with Wente Vineyards’ award-winning wines, food and outdoor fun. This August, enjoy the music of blues-rock band The Stone Foxes and Karl Wente’s band, The Front Porch. Pre-sale tickets at ticketweb for $10 per person, or $15 at the door. Club Wente members may purchase tickets for $7.50, or $10 at the door Artist Reception- Watercolors by Linda Jeffery Sailors Thursday, August 5th, 1:00pm – 3:00pm Estate Winery Tasting Room Local artist, Linda Jeffery Sailors, will be displaying her unique watercolors at the Estate Winery Tasting Room through August. Come meet the artist and enjoy the award-winning wines by Wente Vineyards. For more information call 925-456-2305. September   The Front Porch Music Festival Saturday, September 1st, 3:00pm – 9:00pm Estate Winery Tasting Room This mini Outside Lands’ style festival will feature well known nationally acclaimed artists in the Americana/Bluegrass genre from around the country. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $20 at ticketweb.com or purchased at the door for $30.   Harvest Wine Celebration Sunday and Monday, September 2nd and 3rd, 2012, 12:00pm–5:00pm Estate Winery Tasting Room Support the annual fundraiser for the Livermore Valley Winegrowers Association and visit our winery during Labor Day Weekend to sample wines from nine different wineries, and enjoy live music from The Crawdad Republic and the Bacchus Brothers. Fare from Wente Vineyards Catering, Strizzi's, Scotty's Catering and Coldstone Ice Cream will be available for purchase. You can also sample future vintages directly from the barrel in our historic barrel room for a nominal fee. Winery open for celebration ticketholders only. To purchase your celebration tickets and for more information, visit lvwine.org or purchase from various wineries throughout the Livermore Valley. Artist Reception- Photography by William Hackett Sunday, September 9th, 2012, 1:00pm–3:00pm Estate Winery Tasting Room Join Wente Vineyards for a reception showcasing artwork by locally-based photographer, William Hackett. Come enjoy incredible artwork and wine! Artwork will be on display in the Estate Winery Tasting Room through September. For more information call 925-456-2305. Chef’s Summer Garden Tour and Tasting Tuesday, September 11th, 10:30am-12:00pm The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards Join Executive Chef Matt Greco and Master Gardener Diane Dovholuk for an exclusive tour of The Restaurant’s ½ acre organic production garden. During the tour Diane will provide insight into the foundation of the garden, its soil, French intensive and organic practices applied and the many heirloom varieties grown. Chef Matt will take ingredients harvested that morning and prepare a delicious tasting, illustrating The Restaurant’s ingredient-driven wine country cuisine paired with a sampling of Wente Vineyards wine. Be inspired with many ideas and techniques to incorporate into your own garden. Only $20 per person, $15 for Club Wente Members. Space is limited and reservations are required. Call 925.456.2450 or purchase tickets online. About Wente Vineyards Founded in 1883, Wente Vineyards is the oldest continuously-operated, family-owned winery in the country; owned and managed by the fourth and fifth generations of the Wente family. The winery draws from nearly 3,000 acres of Estate vineyards in the Livermore Valley, San Francisco Bay and Arroyo Seco, Monterey appellations to create an outstanding portfolio of fine wines. Wente Vineyards is distributed in all 50 states and in over 70 countries worldwide.  In 2010, Wente Vineyards was among the first wineries to receive the Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing designation, and one of the only wineries to certify every aspect of its business. In 2011, Wente Family Estates was named American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast and a top 30 wine company by Wine Business Monthly. 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the Wente family bringing Chardonnay cuttings to California. Today, the Wente clone of Chardonnay is the most widely planted in California. Located just east of San Francisco in the historic Livermore Valley, Wente Vineyards is recognized as one of California’s premier wine country destinations. The property features wine tasting, world-class concerts, award-winning fine dining and championship golf. For more information, visit www.wentevineyards.com. For any interviews or media assistance, please contact Skye Morgan at press@charlescomm.com or 415-701-9463. Helpful addresses: Estate Winery Tasting Room | 5565 Tesla Road | Livermore, CA | 925.456.2305 Vineyard Tasting Room | 5050 Arroyo Road | Livermore, CA | 925.456.2405 Event Center at Wente Vineyards | 5050 Arroyo Road | Livermore, CA | 925.456.2405 The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards | 5050 Arroyo Road | Livermore, CA | 925-456-2450 # # #

Napa, CA – Communications expert Lynda Spillane will lead a Public Speaking Mastery Workshop in Napa on Monday, July 30th and Tuesday, July 31st as part of the Leadership Series at WISE Academy, which focuses on building direct-to-consumer and leadership development in sales, marketing and management within the wine industry. Taking place over two full days, this interactive course is designed to help participating CEOs, winemakers and other top level industry executives achieve stronger communication skills. The course will focus on general communication and public speaking, including tips on how to write and deliver an effective speech, read audience emotions, handle media communications and improve confidence in impromptu speaking. Course instructor Lynda Spillane, President and CEO of The Persuasive Word,  has over 30 years of academic study and teaching in the fields of psychology, theater, rhetoric, oratory, public performance, persuasive communication and leadership. She has worked with over 10,000 executives and politicians worldwide on communications skills, including CEOS, presidents of organizations, and prominent politicians including two British Prime Ministers and King Abdullah II of Jordan. Spillane is also a popular keynote speaker at conventions for the Entrepreneurs Organization, the Young Presidents’ Organization and others. “I have personally taken this workshop with Lynda twice and can’t wait to take it again,” shares Lesley Berglund Chairman of the WISE Academy. “It is amazing to see how in just two days she transforms business executives who are not confident speakers into ones that are comfortable and at ease.  Even more impressive is to witness her transform good or great speakers into phenomenal ones.  Not matter if you are speaking to your distributors, your customers or your employees – mastering the art of public speaking is one of the most important gifts you can give yourself.” “We are so advanced in our use of technology, yet we continue to deliver Seventies-style presentations that are simply ineffective,” says Spillane. “Public speaking is not a matter of using PowerPoint or similar technology. It’s a matter of persuading and moving an audience- providing them with a rewarding and often emotional experience.” The cost of the course is $2,000. Participants can register at www.wineindustrysalesacademy.com through Friday, July 20th, 2012. About WISE AcademyTM WISE - which stands for Wine Industry Sales Education - offers a comprehensive curriculum for wine industry professionals. It is the only wine industry education, training and certification program dedicated solely to direct-to-consumer sales and marketing. Developed by more than forty vintners and industry experts, all classes are geared to increasing the expertise of direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales and marketing professionals while also igniting their passion for the role they play in a winery's success. Our courses are divided into three levels, plus an executive series, so we can meet the needs of everyone in the wine industry - from new industry enthusiasts to seasoned direct sales managers to winery CEOs. Founded in 2008, the WISE Academy is led by Chairman Lesley P. Berglund, a wine industry DTC pioneer and serial entrepreneur. For more information please contact media relations representative Katie Hunter at Charles Communications Associates at Katie@charlescomm.com, 415-701-9463 or Lesley P. Berglund, Co-Founder and Chairman, WISE Academy, 707-246-6827. # # #

Willamette Valley, OR – As part of an ongoing commitment to hospitality, dating back almost 20 years ago when the winery was established, Archery Summit is proud to announce the launch of their updated Summer 2012 tours and tasting packages. This year, Archery Summit, known internationally for award winning estate grown Pinot Noir wines from their 120 acres, will welcome the public to the winery for four different tasting experiences. Signature Tasting $15 per person (complimentary for A-List club members) The Signature Tasting package will allow guests to compare and contrast four award-winning Archery Summit Pinot Noirs while enjoying an intimate setting and warm ambiance at the winery. The tastings will be available in the tasting room Monday through Thursday and in the caves Friday through Sunday. No appointment is necessary. Educational Tour & Tasting $40 per person (complimentary for A-List club members) This 1-hour tasting includes a walking tour of the caves and will explain the various aspects of viticulture and winemaking, including growing techniques, appellation, climate, vintage, harvest, blending and bottling. The tour will include a tasting of the four estate wines and will be offered daily at 10:30am and 2:00pm. Reservations required. Sensory Tasting $60 per person ($50 for A-List club members) Elevate your senses and strengthen your tasting skills with Archery Summit’s artisanal food & wine exploration. After a brief tour of the picturesque estate, guests enjoy a flight of five Pinot Noir wines paired with specially prepared hors d’oeuvres, sourced primarily from Oregon artisanal producers chosen to complement the wines. This enticing educational seminar offers helpful tips on food and wine pairing as well as ideas for home entertaining. This package is offered Monday through Friday. Reservations required. First Friday Wine Down $30 per person ($25 for A-List club members) Offered on the 1st Friday of each month from 6:00pm to 9:00pm, Archery Summit hosts a casual soiree where guests can mix, mingle, and kick-off the weekend with food, wine and great company! Admission includes a glass of single vineyard Pinot Noir and delicious hors d’oeuvres. Additional glasses of wine are $15. About Archery Summit Since its inception in 1993, Archery Summit has been devoted to crafting exceptional Pinot Noir from its 120 acres across five estate vineyards.  Inspired by the remarkable growing conditions provided by the Willamette Valley, Archery Summit approaches each step of the winemaking process with particular thoughtfulness and care. This rich tradition has driven an international reputation that is among the finest of New World Pinot Noir. For media inquiries, images and interviews, please contact Skye Morgan of Charles Communications Associates at 415-701-9463 or press@charlescomm.com. #   #   #

Livermore, CA – As part of Wente Vineyards’ ongoing support of new independent music, Karl Wente, Fifth Generation Winemaker at Wente Vineyards, is proud to announce The Front Porch presents Homegrown, a showcase of local Bay Area musical talent. As a creative individual who applies that energy to both winemaking and music, composing, arranging and performing is tightly woven into the fabric of Karl’s life, he is constantly discovering new artists and sounds. This year, two extraordinary bands will be featured as part of the Homegrown series, alongside The Front Porch, which includes Karl Wente. The name of the band and the festival were inspired by the 19th century porch at Karl Wente’s home, where he is often found collaborating with friends and musicians that are passing through town. “Sure, The Front Porch is an actual place where this all started, but it also represents a way of thinking, a state of mind. It’s basically about good music, good wine and good friends, wherever we may find ourselves.” July 14th Davy Knowles The Front Porch (Single Release Party) August 4th The Stone Foxes The Front Porch *** Wine and music work to stimulate our senses and add depth to our lives and, for many, are inextricably intertwined. Wine, like music, encompasses a broad range of styles and evokes memories and emotions for those who experience it. Much like the 32 cultivars of grapes that Karl Wente works with at his family’s vineyards in Livermore Valley and Arroyo Seco in California, his eclectic tastes are reflected in the sounds of the bands he chooses every year. This celebration of local music will take place at Wente Vineyards Estate Winery and Tasting Room located at 5565 Tesla Road in Livermore, CA, where guests will have plenty of room to dance, picnic and enjoy Wente Vineyards’ award-winning wines. The event runs from 5pm to 9pm. Tickets can be purchased online at ticketweb.com beginning Wednesday, June 20th or purchased at the door for $15, or $10 for Club Members.  For additional information on Davy Knowles and The Stone Foxes, please visit TheStoneFoxes.com or DavyKnowles.com. In addition to The Front Porch presents Homegrown, Wente Vineyards will host their third annual The Front Porch Music Festival September 1st, 2012 from 3pm to 9pm. This mini Outside Lands’ style festival will feature well known nationally acclaimed artists in the Americana/ Bluegrass genre from around the country.  Beginning Wednesday, June 20th, tickets can be purchased for $20 at ticketweb.com or purchased at the door for $30.  Special pricing will also be available to Club Members. About Wente Vineyards Founded in 1883, Wente Vineyards is the oldest continuously-operated, family-owned winery in the country; owned and managed by the fourth and fifth generations of the Wente family. The winery draws from nearly 3,000 acres of Estate vineyards in the Livermore Valley, San Francisco Bay and Arroyo Seco, Monterey appellations to create an outstanding portfolio of fine wines. Wente Vineyards is distributed in all 50 states and in over 70 countries worldwide.  In 2010, Wente Vineyards was among the first wineries to receive the Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing designation, and one of the only wineries to certify every aspect of its business. In 2011, Wente Family Estates was named American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast and a top 30 wine company by Wine Business Monthly. 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the Wente family bringing Chardonnay cuttings to California. Today, the Wente clone of Chardonnay is the most widely planted in California. Located just east of San Francisco in the historic Livermore Valley, Wente Vineyards is recognized as one of California’s premier wine country destinations. The property features wine tasting, world-class concerts, award-winning fine dining and championship golf. For more information, visit www.wentevineyards.com. For media inquiries, images and interviews, please contact Skye Morgan of Charles Communications Associates at 415-701-9463 or press@charlescomm.com. #   #   #

Napa Valley, CA - Parallel Napa Valley is honored to have been a “Top Producer”, achieving the second highest bidding E-Auction lot for Auction Napa Valley out of 149 in the competition. The Melka Wines winning bid was $7,751, which included 49 bottles of Napa Valley wine made by renowned winemaker, Philippe Melka. The Melka Wine E-Auction lot featured a magnum of Parallel Napa Valley’s 2009 “Black Diamond” Cabernet Sauvignon and six other 2008 Parallel Napa Valley 750 ml bottles, in addition to 42 other Melka Wines, a lunch for four and a wine cooler. The 32nd annual fundraiser hosted by the Napa Valley Vintners raised over $8 million during the weekend of May 31st, 2012. The proceeds of the auction will support various housing, health & wellness, youth and other community non-profits. As an avid proponent of charities around the nation, Parallel Napa Valley is proud to have been part of such an extraordinary and beneficiary event. About Parallel Wines Philippe Melka, Food & Wine’s 2005 winemaker of the year, has been winemaker for Parallel Napa Valley since its inception in 1999. As a partnership, Parallel Napa Valley’s goal has always been to produce world-class Cabernet Sauvignon wines.  Forging an early relationship with Melka in 2001 was a great foundation for creating Parallel.  His expertise with Bordeaux varietals has lead to the production of some of Napa Valley’s greatest and most sought-after wines. For media inquiries, images and interviews, please contact Skye Morgan of Charles Communications Associates at 415-701-9463 or press@charlescomm.com. #   #   #

Stag’s Leap District, Napa Valley, CA – Crimson Wine Group (CWG) has announced the appointment of Natasha Hayes to the position of Vice President of Marketing, for the estate-focused portfolio of luxury domestic wine brands including Archery Summit (Willamette Valley, OR), Chamisal Vineyards (Edna Valley, CA), Pine Ridge Vineyards (Stag’s Leap District, CA) and Seghesio Family Vineyards (Dry Creek Valley, CA.) A seasoned marketer in the premium and luxury wine business, Hayes will be reporting directly to CEO Erle Martin overseeing both direct to consumer and trade marketing as well as public relations for the company. Bringing over 11 years of wine marketing savvy to Crimson Wine Group, Hayes’ background includes both domestic and international experience, managing brands such as Kendall-Jackson, Ravenswood, Blackstone and Lindemans. She began her career at Beringer Blass (now Treasury Wine Estates) and worked both in the U.S. and Australia helping Wolf Blass establish its #1 status in terms of volume and value. Positions in marketing at both Constellation and Kendall Jackson further cemented her knowledge of the leading brands in the US wine market, and her most recent position with her own Hayes Consulting focused on start up brands in both the wine and consumer packaged goods businesses. Prior to getting bitten by the wine bug, Hayes honed her marketing skills in an agency capacity working with Procter & Gamble, Pillsbury and Clorox. Her extensive strategic marketing experience both domestically and internationally coupled with a passion for the luxury wine market make Hayes a perfect fit for the Crimson portfolio. Of her appointment, CEO Martin states, “We have always believed that an integrated, customized strategic sales and marketing program with our family of wineries has been the key to our success to date. The recent hire of Mike Cekay as SVP of Global Sales, together with Natasha’s appointment will set the blueprint for the future, which I see as very bright.” About Crimson Wine Group The Crimson Wine Group is a leading company in the luxury domestic wine business, with five coveted brands and over 700 planted acres in five growing regions and 11 outstanding AVAs across California, Oregon and Washington. Representing over 250,000 cases within the higher-end price segments, Crimson focuses on estate-grown wines from producers that represent the best their appellation has to offer. The portfolio is a diverse collection, across both varietals and appellations, of top quality wines for the marketplace,which are thoughtfully stewarded by the company’s team. For media inquiries, headshots or interviews please contact Kimberly Charles of Charles Communications Associates, press@charlescomm.com or 415/701-9463. # # #

St. Helena, CA – The Hourglass Wine Company announced today the appointment of Anthony “Tony” Biagi as the winemaker for its two estate vineyards: Hourglass Estate in St. Helena and the Blueline Vineyard in Calistoga.  Biagi’s long-established focus and dedication to Bordeaux varietals in the Napa Valley combined with almost ten years of experience with the Plumpjack Group at Plumpjack and Cade Wineries has prepared him well for this position. Hourglass partner, Jeff Smith, stated “Tony is a gifted winemaker whose style and experience are a natural extension of what we have achieved since the founding of Hourglass in 1997.  He will be a valuable addition to our team.  Hourglass has evolved significantly over the past 15 years under the consulting efforts of Bob Foley, one of the most respected winemakers in Napa Valley.  We are proud of our history crafting quality wines, but felt at this stage of our evolution we needed the attention of a full-time winemaker.  Our mission has never wavered, which is to craft estate grown, terroir driven, modern Napa wines of the highest caliber.  We have found in Tony a uniquely capable winemaker who shares our vision.” A native Californian, Biagi has held a deep love of wine since a childhood visit to a friend’s winery in Lodi, California.  He holds a degree in fermentation science from the University of California Davis and interned in winemaking at both Hess Collection and Dry Creek Vineyard.  He joined Duckhorn Vineyards as an enologist under the guidance of Tom Rinaldi, honing his skills and rapidly graduating from assistant to full-time winemaker in three years.  After a stint as winemaker at Neal Family Vineyards, he joined the Plumpjack Group as winemaker in 2003 and has overseen the winemaking at both Plumpjack and Cade Wineries until the present. “The Hourglass and Blueline Estate Vineyards are what drew me to this project.  These sites are some of the most compelling in the Napa Valley, and I’m extremely eager to handcraft wines from these distinct properties.  I’m very excited to work with the Hourglass team and honored to be chosen to build upon the legacy that Bob Foley started.” For media inquiries, interviews, images, please contact Kimberly Charles of Charles Communications Associates at 415|701-9463 or kcharles@charlescomm.com. #   #   #

                                    Napa, CA— On Wednesday, July 11, five top strategists from fields including economics, marketing and sales, and technology will give keynote addresses at the action packed 8th Annual Wine Industry Technology Symposium (WITS). From the internet’s role in the recent economic revolution to technology’s role in evolving wine industry strategy, the five speakers will highlight opportunities for growth and innovation in the wine business during the symposium’s general session. The session will open at 8:00 am with welcoming remarks from Lesley Berglund, co-chairman of WITS and co-founder and chairman of the Wine Industry Sales Education (WISE) Academy, and will end at 11:30 am. Keynote speakers include Dave Maney, founder of ECONOMANEY, a firm specializing in economic projections and strategy. Maney, who also authors Economic Revolution, a weekly column in the Denver Post, will give an address titled “A Painful, Powerful, Internet-Driven Revolution.” Additional addresses will explore the links between technology development and wine industry strategy. Jeff Dlott, Ph.D. and CEO of agribusiness solutions provider SureHarvest, will focus on process and technology innovations and their impact on the wine industry. Jeff Tinker, Senior Vice President with Treasury Management National Sales Manager with Wells Fargo Bank, will follow with a look at how technology has played a role in evolving industry strategy. Sean Moffitt, Founder and Chief Evangelist with Agent Wildfire, will focus on the use of digital and social media marketing to help brands accelerate growth using real life case studies across multiple industry segments. Jennifer Caroll, National Sales Director with the popular online deal site Groupon, will highlight new ways that consumers interact with businesses at the intersection of local, social and mobile. “This is our best lineup of keynote speakers since inception” said J. Smoke Wallin, co-chairman of WITS.  He continued, “I have had the privileged of interacting with our speakers and know they will each deliver incredible insights and thought provoking discussion that together will deliver real take home value to all attendees.” Early bird pricing to attend WITS on July 11th will increase from $250 to $300 on June 25th.  Attendees can register at www. wineindustrytechnologysymposium.com. About WITS: The Wine Industry Technology Symposium® (WITS) was created in 2005 by a group of wine industry and technology professionals to advance innovation and to address the unique information technology and services needs of the wine industry.  Join WITS on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to learn more. For more information, please contact Katie Hunter of Charles Communications Associates at 415-701-9463 or Katie@charlescomm.com, or contact Waunice Orchid of the Wine Industry Symposium Group at 707-261-8716 or waunice@swgnapa.com ###

Seghesio Family Vineyards offers guests the opportunity to dine and savor its wines at their source — among the vines of the historic properties where they’re grown — as part of its new Chef’s Summer Dinner Series. These dinners, hosted by members of the Seghesio family, continue the winery’s long tradition of sharing wine and food among friends. Guests will be shuttled from the winery to these treasured sites to enjoy special wines from the Seghesio library and seasonal menus prepared by Executive Chef Peter Janiak, formerly of San Francisco’s Boulevard and Presidio Social Club. Chef’s Summer Dinner Series Passalacqua Ranch/San Lorenzo, Alexander Valley – Saturday, June 9th Hosted by Winegrower Pete Seghesio and Uncle Fred Passalacqua The inaugural dinner series will kick off at the oldest site of the Seghesio farms. Guests will enjoy Chef Peter’s menu with Seghesio’s first vintage of Muscat Canelli and a flight of Old Vine Zinfandels while surrounded by beautiful century-old, head-pruned vines. Westphall Ranch, Rockpile AVA – Saturday, July 14th Hosted by Winegrower Pete Seghesio The second dinner will take place in one of California’s newest and most exciting appellations, Rockpile, situated on a narrow ridgetop with breathtaking views of Lake Sonoma. The winery’s limited-production Arneis and a flight of Rockpile Zinfandels will complement Chef Peter’s menu. Rattlesnake Hill at Home Ranch, Alexander Valley – Saturday, August 11th Hosted by Winemaker Ted Seghesio The series finale will be at Home Ranch, the birthplace of Seghesio Family Vineyards and the home of America’s oldest Sangiovese vines. Chef Peter’s menu, served atop Rattlesnake Hill overlooking Alexander Valley, will be paired with Seghesio’s first release of Vermentino, along with the Home Ranch Zinfandel, Aglianico and a flight of Venom Sangiovese. The Chef’s Summer Dinner Series will be limited to 50 guests per event. Tickets are $200 per person and $175 for Centennial Club members (two per membership). A limited number of tickets will be available to Visa Signature cardholders at $175 per ticket. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.seghesio.com/NewsandEvents/Events/ChefsDinnerSeries or call (707) 433-3579, ext. 109. Other culinary offerings: Seghesio Family Vineyards offers several other wine and food experiences throughout the year, including its popular weekend Family Tables and annual Zinfandel & BBQ Festival: New season of Family Tables Now in their seventh year, Seghesio’s Family Tables are considered by many a “must do” in Sonoma wine country. These private tastings allow guests to enjoy wine the way it was intended, around a table with food and friends. Each Family Tables experience begins with a tour of the historic winery before moving to private tasting rooms overlooking the century-old cellar. A seasonal menu of recipes from the Seghesio family and Executive Chef Peter Janiak is paired with a special selection of library wines. Family Tables are offered Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from Presidents Weekend in February through Thanksgiving. The cost is $50 per person and $35 for Centennial Club members (two per membership). For more information or reservations, please visit www.seghesio.com/wineandfoodpairing or call (707) 433-3579. Ninth Annual Zin & BBQ Festival – Saturday, July 28th   Pete Seghesio and the Blaze Pit Crew will put their famous ribs up against the barbecue of two of the best in the business — reigning Memphis in May champion Chris Lilly and Dr. BBQ. Guests will choose the champion in this annual showdown, showcasing some of America’s best barbecue and a stellar lineup of Seghesio Zinfandels. Seghesio’s barbecue tradition began 10 years ago, when Pete Seghesio met Chris Lilly of Big Bob Gibson’s at Memphis in May, the world’s largest barbecue competition. Inspired by what he saw, Pete headed out to Kansas City to bring back Blaze, a custom-built Jedmaster smoker. Upon his return to the winery, Pete invited Chris and Dr. BBQ to come teach him the tricks of the trade, and thus the Zin & BBQ Festival was born. Chris Lilly has won 11 World Barbecue Championships and is recognized as one of the top pitmasters in his field. Dr. BBQ has won numerous barbecue awards and published six cookbooks, and he frequently appears as an expert judge at major barbecue events across the nation. Seghesio’s Zinfandel & BBQ Festival will be held Saturday, July 28th from noon to 4 p.m. at the winery in Healdsburg, CA. Tickets are $75 per person and $60 for Centennial Club members (two per membership). For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.seghesio.com/NewsandEvents or call (707) 433-3579, ext. 109. About Seghesio Family Vineyards Founded in 1895, when Edoardo Seghesio planted his first Zinfandel vineyard in Sonoma County, Seghesio Family Vineyards produces critically acclaimed wines that honor the history of Sonoma and the Seghesio family. Collected over a century, Seghesio’s 300 acres in preeminent growing regions — the Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River valleys — represent some of the oldest vineyards and proprietary clones. True to Edoardo’s vision, Seghesio produces Zinfandel and Italian varietals. The winery offers daily tastings and weekend wine pairings with Seghesio family recipes. For more information, visit www.seghesio.com. For media inquiries, images and interviews please contact Skye Morgan of Charles Communications Associates at 415-701-9463 or press@charlescomm.com. #   #   #

Healdsburg, CA - Seghesio Family Vineyards has appointed Ned Neumiller as the winery’s Head of Grower Relations. Neumiller, the great-great-grandson of founder Edoardo Seghesio, and nephew of Winemaker Ted Seghesio, was raised among the family’s vineyards in Sonoma County. He has years of experience dating back to the late 1990s when he worked alongside his father, Jim Neumiller, the winery’s vineyard manager since 1992. Ned Neumiller began his career with Bevill Vineyard Management, one of Sonoma County’s top vineyard management companies specializing in sustainable vineyard practices. At Bevill, Neumiller learned the trade from the bottom up, starting as a workhand, driving night harvesters and tackling anything that needed doing for the team. He was quickly promoted to data programming and vineyard management. Most recently, Neumiller was involved in agricultural and vineyard equipment sales. Neumiller represents the fifth generation of his family to carry on the tradition, which began when Edoardo Seghesio planted Zinfandel in Alexander Valley in 1895. In addition to his father and uncle, he joins his cousin Pete Seghesio, the winery’s winegrower; his uncle David Seghesio, who is in charge of operations; and his grandfather Ed Seghesio, who, at the age of 86, still runs the crushpad at harvest and welcomes guests at the winery’s tasting room in Healdsburg. Neumiller’s breadth of knowledge in vineyard management and operations, coupled with his desire to continue his family’s rich winegrowing tradition, makes him a valuable addition to Seghesio Family Vineyards. “I look forward to working with my uncle, Ted, and cousin, Pete, and bringing a fresh outlook to the family business where our goal remains to produce great wine,” Neumiller said. About Seghesio Family Vineyards Founded in 1895, when Edoardo Seghesio planted his first Zinfandel vineyard in Sonoma County, Seghesio Family Vineyards produces critically acclaimed wines that honor the history of Sonoma and the Seghesio family. Collected over a century, Seghesio’s 300 acres in preeminent growing regions — the Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River valleys — represent some of the oldest vineyards and proprietary clones. True to Edoardo’s vision, Seghesio produces Zinfandel and Italian varietals. The winery offers daily tastings and weekend wine pairings with Seghesio family recipes. For more informaiton, visit their website at http://www.seghesio.com/. For media inquiries, images and interviews, please contact Skye Morgan of Charles Communications Associates at 415-701-9463 or press@charlescomm.com. #   #   #

GRATON, Calif -- One of America’s most promising female chefs, Kelly Liken, is partnering with California’s Avalon Winery to pair fresh and innovative recipes with Avalon wines. Avalon has teamed up with Liken to provide recipes that will be featured on the winery’s website and in-store promotional materials, including neck tags on bottles of Avalon California Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Merlot and California Sauvignon Blanc. The first recipe, Roasted Colorado Rack of Lamb with a Spring Pea Sauté by Chef Liken pairs with Avalon California Cabernet  - http://www.avalonwinery.com/kellyliken. National Sales Manager of Avalon Winery, Michael Mestas commented on the partnership. “We are very excited about this collaboration between Avalon Wines and Kelly Liken.  It's a perfect pairing of talent and quality.” Mestas said. Liken, a Pennsylvania native, is owner and executive chef at Restaurant Kelly Liken in Vail, Colorado.  In 2008, she was featured in Bon Appetit’s “Women Chefs: The Next Generation” and was a 2009 and 2010 James Beard Semi-Finalist for Best Chef Southwest. She has made numerous national television appearances including NBC’s Today Show and has been a contestant on Food Network’s Iron Chef America and Season 7 of Bravo’s Top Chef. Avalon Winery, located in Sonoma County, California, produces top selling wines recognized for outstanding quality. The winery also has a great environmental report card, employing cutting edge energy and water efficient practices at its winery.   World-class winemaking techniques combined with a culture of responsible resource conservation results in quality both inside and outside the bottle. For media inquiries please contact Charles Communications Associates at 415|701-9463 or press@charlescomm.com.   #   #   #

Graton, CA – Purple Wine Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Peter Baedeker as Managing Director, Imports.  Baedeker will be responsible for building and integrating a range of relevant international brands that are varietal-centric and regionally focused. A California native with fifteen years of wine industry experience, Peter has held key management roles as a wine importer and distributor, most recently as President of The Henry Wine Group.  He will now be tasked with expanding Purple Wine Company’s portfolio by sourcing brands from the global market.  “I was fortunate to have worked with Purple Wine Company as their wholesaler from the beginning, and have always admired the brand building strength of the organization.  There are few in the industry with such a strong reputation for developing brands through a focused, disciplined sales and marketing strategy.  It’s a great time for an importer with fresh perspective to enter the market, especially one who has the knowledge, planning capacity and infrastructure to rapidly scale brands in the United States.  I’m thrilled to be part of the organization,” he stated. Beginning his career as a Sales Representative at The Henry Wine Group, the same California distributor he would one day lead to a turnaround in the midst of the deep recessionary market from 2009 to 2012, Peter developed an expertise in the imported wine category throughout his career.  As Director of Corporate Sale and National Accounts Manager for Republic National Distributing Company covering the Southern United States and then at The Henry Wine Group, as Vice President of National Accounts, and Senior Vice President of Sales, he built relationships with leading producers from Spain, France, Italy, South America, Australia and New Zealand. “With Peter in this role, Purple Wine Company is now positioned to develop its influence in the global wine market.  We intend to leverage our existing infrastructure to bring relevant imports to the U.S. market and to provide a dynamic platform for existing imported brands to grow,” commented company owner and CEO Derek Benham.  “This move expands our global reach and diversifies our supply portfolio.” About Purple Wine Company Purple Wine Company was founded in 2001 by Derek Benham and is based in Graton, California.  Its mission is to create wines of outstanding value, high quality and consistent style from vintage to vintage.  The wines are produced by its sister production company, Sonoma Wine Company, using water and energy conservation practices while reducing Greenhouse gas emissions.  Current brands include:  Mark West, Avalon, Bex, Rock Rabbit and Four Vines. For more information, please visit www.purplewine.com.  For press inquiries please contact Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415.701.9463.  For supplier inquiries, please contact Peter Baedeker, pbaedeker@purplewine.com.   #   #   #