Panther Creek Cellars Celebrates 30 Years at Upland in NYC, June 14, 2016

20160614-panther teamPanther Creek Cellars, one of the first Oregon wineries recognized for its exceptional regional blends and single vineyard designates, especially Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay, celebrated its 30th anniversary with a preview single vineyard tasting at Upland restaurant in New York City on June 14th.  Guests joined winemaker Tony Rynders, vineyard owners, Arthur and Sherry Kalita of Kalita Vineyard and Robert and Janet Schindler of Schindler Vineyard, Peter Kaufman and Sam Bronfman, Cofounders and Managing Partners of Bacchus Capital.  Rynders shared three preview releases at the event: 2014 Lazy River Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2014 Kalita Vineyard Pinot Noir and 2014 Schindler Vineyard Pinot Noir, as well as his 2013 Winemaker’s Cuvee and 2014 Pinot Gris.

Photo Credit: Giovana Schluter Nunes

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June 21, 2017 – WineBusiness.com, Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort Records Another Success

Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort Records Another Success

Top Washington, Oregon and Canadian Winemakers from DeLille, Gehringer, Leonetti, Northstar and Panther Creek Featured

by Press Release
June 21, 2017

BLAINE, Washington, June 21, 2017 — April 28-30, 2017 marked the second annual Northwest Wine Encounter weekend at the Semiahmoo Resort, Golf and Spa, just south of the Canadian border in Blaine, Washington. Building on a uniquely engaging format showcasing some of the region’s most celebrated winemakers, the weekend offered insight and inspiration coupled with the cuisine of chef Bruno Feldeisen. Renowned Washington grower Mike Sauer, owner of Red Willow Vineyard as well as Arthur Kalita, proprietor of Kalita Vineyard in Oregon’s Willamette Valley enhanced the roster. Keynote speaker was acclaimed Washington retailer Doug Charles of Compass Wines in Anacortes. Charles, who is often touted as “Historian of the Pacific Northwest”, opened the conference with a view through his personal and professional lens, beginning with his early years around the kitchen table with his grandmother and James Beard and working through the recent decades of explosive growth and innovation in the Northwest.

Participants in the 2017 Wine Encounter were Chris Figgins of Leonetti Cellar, Toil Oregon and Figgins Family Wine Estates in Walla Walla, Wash.; David “Merf” Merfeld of Northstar Winery in Walla Walla; Chris Upchurch of DeLille Cellars in Woodinville and Upchurch Vineyard on Red Mountain; Tony Rynders of Panther Creek Cellars in Dundee, Ore., and Tendril Wines in Gaston, Ore.; Walter Gehringer of Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery in Oliver, British Columbia; Dana Roberts of Westport Winery in Aberdeen, Wash.; Doug Charles of Compass Wines in Anacortes, Wash., and Mike Sauer, founding viticulturist and co-owner of revered Red Willow Vineyard in Washington’s Yakima Valley.

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(L-R) Mike Sauer, Chris Figgins, Doug Charles, Tony Rynders, Chris Upchurch, Walter Gehringer, Eric Degerman and Dave Merfeld

Seminars included The Siren Song of Pinot Noir, The Wonder of Walla Walla, The Importance of Place and Wine Speed Dating, a timed tasting which proved particularly popular as guests sipped and socialized with winemakers. Friday evening’s beach bonfire was accompanied by winemakers’ cellar selections and s’mores paired with 20-year-old Vintage Port. The Winemakers’ Gala Dinner on Saturday featured cuisine created by executive chef Bruno Feldeisen, a Food Network Canada star. He was introduced by Columbia Hospitality culinary director Roy Breiman, an author and celebrity chef who defeated Bobby Flay during Season 6 of Beat Bobby Flay.

“It was clear that the region has come a long way rather quickly,” Charles pointed out. “Back in the 80’s, there were less than 20 wineries in Washington. Now there are over 900. The subject of “finding place” has evolved over time – from a region, the Pacific Northwest, to a state, Washington or Oregon, to an area, such as Walla Walla and the Willamette Valley, to the focus that we see today on specific vineyards.”

Winemakers, growers, and consumers all agreed that the unique terrain and climate of the Northwest, when coupled with the personal and passionate visions of each winery and winemaker, yield wonderful wines of great depth, flavor and character, many of which often “over-deliver on price”. As Chris Upchurch of DeLille Cellars and Upchurch Vineyard noted, “We’re making wines that reflect the terroir of the vineyard and the deliciousness of the grape. That’s our Washington.”

“We were fortunate enough to attract another historic lineup of winemakers and winegrowers, which I believe speaks to the siren’s call that is Semiahmoo as a destination resort,” event co-founder Eric Degerman said. “For the second year in a row, we recruited some of the Pacific Northwest wine industry’s most renowned pioneers, who have helped moved our corner of the wine world onto the global stage.”

Degerman continued, “With the ongoing support of friends, fans and partners such as Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan and Seattle Magazine, we look forward to growing the Northwest Wine Encounter in the years ahead.”

March 24, 2017 – Write for Wine, “Wonderful Wine Weekend Getaway at Semiahmoo”

Wonderful Wine Weekend Getaway at Semiahmoo

Posted on by

Whether you live in nearby British Columbia or in the Seattle area, mark your calendars for April 28-30 — a wonderful weekend for wine lovers.

Just six miles from the B.C. border, the second annual Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort features a great getaway to experience wine, and meet some of the most talented winemakers and viticulturists from Washington state, British Columbia and Oregon:

We have tasted wines from all of the attending wineries and vineyards, and we also attended last year’s inaugural Northwest Wine Encounter — so we can personally attest to the experiences awaiting you this year at Semiahmoo Resort.

The weekend event is packed with educational and fun times, opening on Friday, April 28 with a Winemaker’s Reception, followed by a private beach bonfire with gourmet s’mores paired with port.

Here is the list of activities to enjoy at the scenic, breathtakingly beautiful resort. You can also download the full schedule at Semiahmoo’s website.

Friday, April 28
4:00 to 6:30 p.m. – Arrival, check-in and free time

6:30 to 8:00 p.m. – Meet the Winemakers, Tasting Reception
Enjoy a casual tasting, hearty appetizers by Bruno Feldeisen, executive chef at Semiahmoo Resort’s Pierside Kitchen, and the opportunity to mingle with the winemakers and wine experts.

8:00 p.m. – Private Beach Bonfire (on the Beach next to Packers Oyster Bar)
Enjoy s’mores and mingling for Northwest Wine Encounter guests and winemakers. A port tasting with exquisite gourmet chocolates from jcoco enhance this signature NWWE experience (weather dependent).

Saturday, April 29
9:30 to 10:00 a.m. – Opening Remarks
A look at Northwest wine country and an overview of the wines you will taste over the next two days, hosted by Andy Perdue of Wine Press Northwest, who is also a wine columnist for The Seattle Times, as well as retailer and collector Doug Charles of Compass Wines.

10:00 to 11:00 a.m. – The Siren Song of Pinot Noir
Explore Pinot Noir with Chris Figgins, Tony Rynders and Walter Gehringer.

11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. – Lunch Break

1:30 to 2:30 p.m. – Walla Walla
One of the most famous wine towns in North America is Walla Walla. What makes the region so special? Explore this AVA with David Merfeld and Chris Figgins.

2:30 to 3:30 p.m. – Wine Speed Dating
In this fun format, each participant will get the opportunity to taste wine one-on-one with our winery panelists.

3:30 to 4:30 p.m. – Guided Bird Watching Tour on the Semiahmoo Spit (Limited space, please pre-register)

4:30 to 7:00 p.m. – Leisure Time

7:00 to 10:00 p.m. – Winemaker Gala Dinner
Get up close and personal with winemakers and top experts at this Winemaker Gala Dinner. Each table is hosted by a panelist or wine industry luminary, and a five-course meal will be crafted by Chef Bruno Feldeisen and celebrity chef Roy Breiman of Coastal Hotels. The courses will be paired by wines from all wineries in attendance.

Sunday, April 30
10:00 to 11:30 a.m. – Importance of Place
How important is a single vineyard? A single location within that vineyard? These questions will be explored with Chris Upchurch along with historic grower Mike Sauer.

The entire weekend package — including two nights at the gorgeous resort — starts at $475 per person. Further information is available at Semiahmoo Resort’s website.

We hope to see you there!

Cheers!
Margot and Dave

 

February 8, 2017 – DeLille & Panther Creek to Participate in 2nd Annual Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort

« All Events

Northwest Wine Encounter At Semiahmoo Resort

April 28 – April 30

$475

SECOND ANNUAL NORTHWEST WINE ENCOUNTER AT SEMIAHMOO RESORT

Friday, April 28 through Sunday, April 30

BLAINE, Wash. – (February 7, 2017) – Semiahmoo Resort, Golf & Spa, an iconic seaside resort on the pristine shores of Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor located just 90 minutes north of Seattle, is proud to announce the second annual Northwest Wine Encounter, Friday, April 28 through Sunday, April 30 2017.

 

“This is a young event in a beautiful setting with a lineup of some of the Pacific Northwest’s most famous winemakers,” said host Andy Perdue, wine writer for The Seattle Times. “The venue lends itself to a relaxing weekend, and our guests will socialize with these talented winemakers and learn about their wines during the course of three delicious days at Semiahmoo.”

 

Every vintage has a story, and some of the region’s finest winemakers are extending an invitation to uncork their passion for the weekend. Guests can delve deeper into understanding wine and cuisine while building relationships and learning from a lineup of luminaries from the Pacific Northwest’s wine industry.

 

“We’re onto something here in Washington, Oregon and Canada,” said Chris Upchurch, of Woodinville’sDeLille Cellars. “Our unique topography and climate, coupled with our combined sense of passion and curiosity, enable us all to make wines that are unique, expressive and delicious.”

 

The second annual Northwest Wine Encounter opens with the Winemaker’s Reception, where guests can familiarize themselves with participating wineries during a casual open tasting. Once the sun begins to set, guests are invited to follow the glow of the bonfire to indulge in gourmet s’mores, soaking in the seaside environs from the immaculate beaches of Semiahmoo Resort.

 

Saturday’s three educational seminars begin with The Siren Song of Pinot Noir hosted by three regional winemakers. Join Tony Rynders of Willamette Valley’s Panther Creek Cellars, Chris Figgins of Toil Oregonand Leonetti Cellarand Walter Gehringer of Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery as they not only present their wines, but share what drives them to craft some of the most distinctive wines in the country.

 

Famed for its terroir, Walla Walla has quickly become one of the most well-known wine destinations in North America. Industry veterans David Merfeld of Walla Walla’s Merlot-focused Northstar Winery, Chris Upchurch and Tony Rynders will explore what it is about this small eastern Washington town’s viticulture that produces such sought after fruit.

 

Tasters will have the unique opportunity to taste wines one-on-one with participating winemakers atSaturday’s Wine Speed Dating. Take the opportunity to sip wines with the trained palates of Chris Figgins, Andy Perdue and Chris Upchurch.

 

Friday’s vintners will join viticulturist Mike Sauer of historic Yakima Valley’s Red Willow Vineyard on the panel for educational seminars designed to expand tasters’ knowledge of Pacific Northwest wine country and the nuances of their exceptional wines. Acclaimed retailer and collector Doug Charles of Compass Wines will serve as the keynote speaker, and Andy Perdue, wine writer for The Seattle Times, will moderate the panels.

 

Saturday culminates with an intimate Vintner’s Dinner Gala expertly crafted by Bruno Feldeisen, executive chef at Semiahmoo Resort’s Pierside Kitchen, and celebrity chef Roy Breiman of Coastal Hotels. During this carefully curated five-course meal, guests can enjoy conversation with the wine luminary seated at each table while savoring perfectly-paired wines from all wineries in attendance.

 

“Some of the best product I’ve seen from all over the world is right here under our hands,” said Bruno Feldeisen, Executive Chef of Pierside Kitchen. “In our beautiful corner of the Pacific Northwest, we’re surrounded by hardworking farmers and fishermen whose bounty we’re honored to showcase this weekend alongside the finest wines of our region.”

 

The final seminar on Sunday, Importance of Place, asks the question: How important is a single vineyard, or single location within that vineyard? DeLille’s answer may be the key to their national success. Chris Upchurch and Mike Sauer will explore these questions together as a pair of Washington’s premier growers.

 

Registration is available for $475 per person, including two nights stay and resort fees, Friday night’s wine tasting and beach bonfire, vintner-hosted tasting seminars. Guests can also enjoy 15% off spa treatments and golf rounds during their stay.

 

Northwest Wine Encounter is made possible by its participating sponsors; Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card and Mileage Plan, Seattle Magazine, Talking Rain, Beecher’s and jcoco. For more information regarding Semiahmoo Resort and the second annual Northwest Wine Encounter, please visit www.semiahmoo.com.

 

About Semiahmoo Resort

Washington State’s iconic Semiahmoo Resort, Golf, & Spa is located on the pristine shores of Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor, where tide pools and estuaries provide a sanctuary for Pacific Northwest wildlife. Just 45 minutes south of Vancouver, B.C. and 90 minutes north of Seattle, Semiahmoo has recently completed a multi-million dollar restoration inspired by its seaside location. Within Semiahmoo are two dining options: Pierside Kitchen with fresh, seasonally inspired cuisine emphasizing local and regional purveyors and Packers Oyster Bar, where guests can enjoy familiar fare with impressive water views. Semiahmoo’s two golf courses (Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club, designed by Arnold Palmer, and Loomis Trail Golf Club, designed by Graham Cooke) were ranked among the top courses in Washington in 2014 by Golfweek. Semiahmoo Resort is located on the beautiful Semiahmoo Spit at 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway in Blaine, Wash. For reservations call 855-917-3767 or visit www.semiahmoo.com.

+ GOOGLE CALENDAR+ ICAL EXPORT

Details

Start:
April 28
End:
April 30
Cost:
$475
Event Category:
Website:
http://www.semiahmoo.com/specials/northwest-wine-encounter.htm

Venue

Semiahmoo Resort
9565 Semiahmoo Pkwy
Blaine, WA 98230 United States+ Google Map

November 15, 2016 – Seattle Magazine, “Dig Deep Into Wine at the Northwest Wine Encounter”

Seattle Magazine – Dig Deep Into Wine at the Northwest Wine Encounter

An intimate affair for wine lovers who get their geek on over things like the impact of soil, weather, terroir and altitude

BY:

VIRGINIA SMYTH

Posted

LOCAL WINE
WASHINGTON WINE
OREGON WINE

A flight of wine awaiting tasting at one of the educational panels

If you love good wine—really good wine—you’ll want to put Northwest Wine Encounter on your radar.

Haven’t heard of it before? That’s not surprising. The inaugural event, which I attended last spring, was an intimate affair with space for just a few dozen wine lovers who got their geek on over things like the impact of soil, weather, terroir and altitude on winemaking, learning about these during educational panels led by some of the region’s finest winemakers. And, of course, it helped to taste through flights of really fine wine as the winemakers offered insights and perspective.

The return engagement, on the weekend of April 28-30 (from $485/person including lodging, events and gala dinner), will follow a similar format and will once again be held at Semiahmoo Resort, a lovely spot overlooking Semiahmoo Bay, with the U.S./Canadian border and Peace Arch in view across the water. This year, there will be room for around 100 wine lovers (sign up for Northwest Wine Encounter here).


Winemakers and guests enjoying Friday night’s bonfire at Semiahmoo 

This quintessential Northwest location was chosen to complement the local wines that are the focus of the weekend. At Semiahmoo, Mount Baker frames the view in one direction, the San Juan Islands and Puget Sound in another. At one time in its history, Semiahmoo was also the site of a salmon cannery. Hard to get more Northwest than that.

The 2017 winemaker lineup includes a few superstars from Oregon and Washington: Chris Figgins of Leonetti Cellars, Walla Walla’s oldest winery; David Merfeld of Northstar Winery, Chris Upchurch of DeLille Cellars; Tony Rynders of Panther Creek and wine grower Mike Sauer of Red Willow Vineyards. New this year is the addition of a British Columbia winemaker, Walter Gehriner of Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery.

At last year’s events, the panel discussions were interesting, but the Friday night kick-off event was almost worth the price of admission alone. It had the air of an informal party where everyone was enjoying each other’s company. All the winemakers were in attendance, pouring and chatting about what they love most: making wine. The party eventually spilled out onto the beach where a bonfire warmed the crowd. Marshmallows optional, wine required.

October 6, 2016 – Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort Announces 2017 Roster

  NWWE

 

 

 Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort Announces 2017 Roster

 Chris Figgins of Leonetti Cellar, David “Merf” Merfeld of Northstar Winery, Chris Upchurch of DeLille Cellars, Tony Rynders of Panther Creek Cellars, Walter Gehringer of Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery, Doug Charles of Compass Wines, Roy Breiman, celebrity chef and author, and Mike Sauer owner Red Willow Vineyard are All On Board

 BLAINE, Washington, October 6, 2016 – The lineup fornwwe-panelist-lineup the second annual

 

 

 

 

 

Northwest Wine Encounter has been finalized and the program is set. Chris Figgins of Leonetti Cellar and Tony Rynders of Panther Creek are two of the weekend’s headliners, representing the Washington and Oregon wine regions. Canada’s Okanagan Valley of British Columbia will be represented by Walter Gehringer of Gehringer Brothers The event will take place April 28-30, 2017, at the acclaimed Semiahmoo Resort, just south of the Canadian border, on the shores of Birch Bay, the Cascade and Olympic Mountains in view. Two days of wine education and appreciation will include tastings, seminars, and a gala dinner as well as birdwatching on the Semiahmoo peninsula, a beach bonfire and golf on the resort’s top rated courses. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature and Talking Rain are participating sponsors of the weekend.

Led by wine writer and columnist for the Seattle Times Andy Perdue, and Eric Degerman, of Great Northwest Wine, program topics and events will include:

The Siren Song of Pinot Noir, Walla Walla, Wine Speed Dating and The Importance of Place.

“I’m excited to be a part of this annual event at one of the most beautiful resorts in the Northwest, to celebrate the world of Pacific Northwest wine and food,” commented Chris Figgins.

“It’s terrific to be a part of a program with this team,” added Tony Rynders. “Wines from our part of the world are continuing to get a lot of attention, which is very gratifying.”

“Yes, we’re onto something here in Washington, Oregon and Canada,” added Chris Upchurch. “Our unique topography and climate, coupled with our combined sense of passion and curiosity, enable us all to make wines that are unique, expressive and delicious.” He continued, “What I particularly love about this event is the fact that I get to meet and spend time with everyone who attends and to discuss the great art of winemaking in this amazing setting.”

Click to View Video

Participantwinery-lineup Details

Chris Figgins, winemaker and president of Figgins Family Wine Estates, including Leonetti Cellar, Figgins Family Estate and his new Toil Oregon brand.

David “Merf” Merfeld, winemaker for Northstar Winery, a Merlot-focused winery south of Walla

Walla that is owned by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates.

Chris Upchurch, winemaker and cofounder for acclaimed DeLille Cellars in Woodinville, Wash. Upchurch also is the owner of Upchurch Vineyard on Red Mountain in Eastern Washington.

Tony Rynders, winemaker for Panther Creek Cellars in Dundee, Ore. Rynders also is owner of

Tendril Wine Cellars in Gaston, Ore. Rynders was head winemaker for Domaine Serene from 1998 to 2008 after spending a few years working in the Washington wine industry.

Walter Gehringer, winemaker and co-owner of Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery in Oliver, B.C.

Doug Charles, owner of Compass Wines in Anacortes, Wash. Charles has been involved in the

Washington wine industry as a retailer or restaurateur since 1978. He also owns Ded Reckoning, a Washington wine label whose wines are made in the tradition of France’s negoçiant businesses.

Roy Breiman, celebrity chef and author. Breiman, culinary director for Cedarbrook Lodge, gained fame last year when he went up against famed chef Bobby Flay on national TV– and beat him on the Food Network show.

Mike Sauer is the owner of famed Red Willow Vineyard in the western Yakima Valley. Sauer is perhaps best known for his work with the late David Lake, the longtime Washington winemaker and Master of Wine. In 1986, Sauer planted the first Syrah in Washington. The red Rhône grape has gone on to grow into Washington’s No. 3 red grape.

Program Lineup

The Siren Song of Pinot Noir

We open the second annual Northwest Wine Encounter with three winemakers who craft Pinot Noir. Join Tony Rynders of Panther Creek, Chris Figgins of Toil Oregon and Walter Gehringer of Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery as they not only present their wines but also talk about what drives them to craft the most maddening wine on the planet.

Walla Walla

One of the most famous wine towns in North America is Walla Walla, Wash. What makes the region so special? We’ll find out from Chris Figgins of Leonetti Cellar (Walla Walla’s oldest winery) and David “Merf” Merfeld of Northstar Winery.

Wine Speed Dating

In this fun format, each participant will get the opportunity to taste wine one-on- one with our winery participants. Here is your chance to taste wines with Chris Figgins of Leonetti, Andy Perdue of the Seattle Times and Chris Upchurch of DeLille Cellars.

Importance of Place

How important is a single vineyard? A single location within that vineyard? We will explore these questions with one of Washington’s best winemakers and best grape growers. Join Chris Upchurch of DeLille Cellars and Mike Sauer of Red Willow Vineyard as they present wines from DeLille Cellars made with grapes from Red Willow.

Package Details

The weekend event cost is $475 per person which includes:

Two nights in a beautifully renovated guestroom at the Semiahmoo Resort

Friday night wine tasting followed by a beach bonfire (weather permitting)

Vintner-hosted tasting seminars

Saturday evening Gala Dinner with winemakers

Resort fee for two nights

15% off spa treatments and golf rounds during each stay

Click to Register

PRESS CONTACTS

Hilary Peck of Bacchus Capital Management (212) 486-3600, ext. 125 hpeck@bacchuswinefund.com

Kendal Kemery of Richmond Public Relations (206) 682-6979 kendalk@richmondpr.com

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September 15, 2016 – NW Wine Encounter Lineup Begins to Take Shape – DeLille Cellars and Panther Creek Cellars to Participate

NW Wine Encounter lineup begins to take shape

By on September 14, 2016
 

Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo logoBLAINE, Wash. – The lineup for the second annual Northwest Wine Encounter is taking shape, with Chris Figgins of Leonetti Cellar stepping up as one of the headliners.

The Northwest Wine Encounter is a weekend wine event at the stunning Semiahmoo Resort near the Canadian border north of Seattle. The second annual event take place April 28-30, 2017. The cost is $475 per person and includes:

  • Two nights in a beautifully renovated guestroom.
  • Friday night wine tasting followed by a beach bonfire (weather permitting)
  • Vintner hosted tasting seminars.
  • Saturday evening Gala Dinner with winemakers.
  • Resort fee for two nights.
  • 15% off spa treatments and golf rounds during your stay.

Click to signup for the second annual Northwest Wine Encounter.

Northwest Wine Encounter lineup

Semiahmoo Resort is home to the Northwest Wine Encounter

Semiahmoo Resort is host to the second annual Northwest Wine Encounter, which is April 28-30, 2017. The iconic resort is near Blaine, Wash., about two hours north of Seattle. (Photo courtesy of Semiahmoo Resort)

So far, the lineup looks like this:

  • Chris Figgins, winemaker and president of Figgins Family Wineries, including Leonetti Cellar, Figgins Family Estate and Toil Oregon.
  • David “Merf” Merfeld, winemaker for Northstar Winery, a Merlot-focused winery south of Walla Walla that is owned by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates.
  • Chris Upchurch, winemaker and partner for acclaimed DeLille Cellars in Woodinville, Wash. Upchurch also is the owner of Upchurch Vineyard on acclaimed Red Mountain in Eastern Washington.
  • Tony Rynders, winemaker for Panther Creek Cellars in Dundee, Ore. Rynders also is owner of Tendril Wine Cellars in Gaston, Ore. Rynders was head winemaker for Domaine Serene for the better part of a decade after spending a few years working in the Washington wine industry.
  • Doug Charles, owner of Compass Wines in Anacortes, Wash. Charles has been involved in the Washington wine industry as a retailer or restaurateur since 1978. He also ownsded.reckoning, a Washington wine label whose wines are made in the tradition of France’s negotiant businesses.
  • Roy Breiman, celebrity chef and author. Breiman, culinary director for Cedarbrook Lodgenear Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, gained fame last year when he went up against famed chef Bobby Flay on national TV – and beat him on the Food Network show last year.
  • Mike Sauer is the owner of famed Red Willow Vineyard in the western Yakima Valley. Sauer is perhaps best known for his work with David Lake, the longtime Washington winemaker and Master of Wine. In 1986, Sauer planted the first Syrah in Washington. The red Rhône grape has gone on to grow into Washington’s No. 3 red grape.

At least one more winemaker will be added to the lineup in the weeks to come.

Northwest Wine Encounter lineup begins to take shape

April 18, 2016 – Two Bacchus Wineries Participated -“Scenes from Northwest Wine Encounter”

Scenes from Northwest Wine Encounter

By on April 18, 2016
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Bob Betz of Betz Family Winery

During a discussion and tasting of Red Mountain wines, Bob Betz of Betz Family Winery makes a point while Chris Upchurch of DeLille Cellars, left, and Darel Allwine of Col Solare listen. (Photo by Andy Perdue/Great Northwest Wine)

BLAINE, Wash. – More than 60 wine lovers gathered at Semiahmoo Resort for the inauguralNorthwest Wine Encounter, an event that celebrates the beauty and diversity of Pacific Northwest wines.

Winemakers and grape growers from Washington and Oregon took part in the event. They were:

  • Bob Betz, founder and winemaker for Betz Family Winery in Woodinville, Wash.
  • Chris Upchurch, co-founder and winemaker for DeLille Cellars in Woodinville, Wash.
  • Joe Dobbes, owner and winemaker for Dobbes Family Estate in Dundee, Ore.
  • Darel Allwine, winemaker for Col Solare on Washington’s Red Mountain.
  • Dick Boushey, owner of Boushey Vineyards in the Yakima Valley town of Grandview.

Patrons and wine professionals tasted through wines of Washington and Oregon for three days at the stunning Semiahmoo Resort near the Canadian border just south of Vancouver, British Columbia. They were treated to Northwest Wine Encounter Winemakersa delicious five-course gala dinner Saturday evening.

Here are a few photos from the inaugural Northwest Wine Encounter.

 

About Andy Perdue

Andy Perdue is the editor and publisher of Great Northwest Wine. He is a third-generation journalist who has worked at newspapers since the mid-1980s and has been writing about wine since 1998. He co-founded Wine Press Northwest magazine with Eric Degerman and served as its editor-in-chief for 15 years. He is a frequent judge at international wine competitions. He is the author of “The Northwest Wine Guide: A Buyer’s Handbook” (Sasquatch, 2003) and has contributed to four other books. He writes about wine for The Seattle Times. You can find him on Twitter and .

March 30, 2016 – Great Northwest Wine, Two Bacchus Wineries Participate in Inaugural Great Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort

Great Northwest Wine

Semiahmoo Resort host to Northwest Wine Encounter

By on March 30, 2016

Semiahmoo Resort is home to the Northwest Wine Encounter

Semiahmoo Resort is host to the inaugural Northwest Wine Encounter, which is April 15-17. The iconic resort is near Blaine, Wash., about two hours north of Seattle. (Photo courtesy of Semiahmoo Resort)

BLAINE, Wash. – Four great Northwest wineries will come together April 15-17 for the inaugural Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort.

The event is organized by Semiahmoo and Great Northwest Wine.

Winemakers for Betz Family Winery, DeLille Cellars, Col Solare and Dobbes Family Estate will spend an intimate weekend with wine lovers to explore the world of Northwest wine.

Space is extremely limited, and only a handful of seats remain for the Northwest Wine Encounter. Semiahmoo, a seaside resort northwest of Bellingham, is on a peninsula and has been a top Northwest destination for more than 20 years. It is home to two championship golf courses, one of which was designed by PGA legend Arnold Palmer.

Semiahmoo Resort is about two hours north of Seattle and about 30 minutes south of Vancouver, British Columbia.

Cost per person is $375, and that includes two nights’ lodging, Friday evening’s tasting, four wine seminars and Saturday evening’s gala winemakers dinner. The package price is based on double occupancy.

The participating winemakers include:

  • Bob Betz, Master of Wine and founding winemaker for Betz Family Winery in Woodinville, Wash.
  • Chris Upchurch, winemaker, founder and partner in DeLille Cellars in Woodinville.
  • Darel Allwine, winemaker for Col Solare on Red Mountain.
  • Joe Dobbes, owner and winemaker of Dobbes Family Estate in Dundee, Ore.
  • Louis Skinner, winemaker for Betz Family Winery.

The seminars will be led by Andy Perdue and Eric Degerman, owners of Great Northwest Wine.

Itinerary for inaugural Northwest Wine Encounter

Semiahmoo Resort is home to the Northwest Wine Encounter.

Sunrise over the Cascade Mountains provides a spectacular backdrop for Semiahmoo Resort and the inaugural Northwest Wine Encounter. (Photo courtesy of Semiahmoo Resort)

Friday, April 15

4-7 p.m.: Arrival and check-in. A good time to leisurely explore the beautiful Semiahmoo Resort and property.

6:30-8 p.m.: Meet the Winemakers. The participating winemakers will bring some of their favorite wines to share with patrons. This is a great opportunity to mingle with five of the Northwest’s most admired winemakers.

9 p.m.: Beach Bonfire. Enjoy s’mores and dessert wines with the winemakers on the beach in front of Semiahmoo Resort. This event is weather-permitting.

Saturday, April 16

9:30 a.m.: Opening remarks. Bob Betz will share the story of the Washington wine industry, setting the stage for the rest of the weekend.

10-11 a.m.: Sublime world of Pinot Noir. Joe Dobbes will share four single-vineyard Pinot Noirs from four separate American Viticultural Areas in the northern Willamette Valley. He will talk about how each region differs and why each is able to produce some of the most exciting New World Pinot Noirs.

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Lunch. Enjoy lunch on your own at either of Semiahmoo’s on-site restaurants.

1-2 p.m.: Succulent Syrah. Chris Upchurch, Louis Skinner and Bob Betz will share four different expressions of Washington Syrah. They will provide their insights into why Washington Syrah can be so expressive and fascinating.

2-3 p.m.: Guided bird watching on Semiahmoo Spit.

3:30-4:30 p.m.: Red Mountain Rising. Darel Allwine and Chris Upchurch will pour four examples of red wines from Red Mountain, a 4,040-acre ridge in the eastern Yakima Valley that is considered the finest grape-growing area in Washington. Learn why winemakers around the world are being drawn to Red Mountain and its stunning wine grapes.

7 p.m.: Winemaker Gala Dinner. Enjoy a multi-course gourmet meal by Semiahmoo’s talented chefs paired with wines from Betz, Col Solare, DeLille and Dobbes. Andy Perdue, wine columnist for The Seattle Times, will deliver a keynote address to set the mood for the evening. Each table will have representatives from the participating wineries. This is another great opportunity to get up and personal with the featured winemakers.

Sunday, April 17

10-11:30 a.m.: Wonderful Whites. We conclude the inaugural Northwest Wine Encounter with a tasting of several delicious white wines from Dobbes Family Estate, DeLille Cellars and Chateau Ste. Michelle.

Register for the Northwest Wine Encounter by calling 855-917-3767 or registering online.

April 15-17, 2016 Inaugural Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort

NWWE Logo Semiahmoo

Join us for the Inaugural Northwest Wine Encounter at Semiahmoo Resort

Celebrate acclaimed wines and winemakers
of the Pacific Northwest

CLICK HERE FOR EVENT FLYER

CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS

Semiahmoo signature-aerial.jpg.1920x807_default

July 13, 2015 – Sam Bronfman, Tony Rynders & Ken Wright Celebrated Panther Creek’s Launch of Tony’s 2013 Single Vineyard Wines

Guests joined Sam Bronfman, Tony Rynders and Ken Wright for a wine tasting and lunch at James Beard Award Winning Chef Vitaly’s Acclaimed Imperial Restaurant in Portland on July 13, 2015.

Photo Credit: Chris Bidleman

(L-R) Tony Rynders, Consulting Winemaker, Panther Creek Cellars; Doug Adams, Executive Chef, Imperial; Vitaly Paley, Chef/Owner, Imperial; Ken Wright, Founder, Panther Creek Cellars; Sam Bronfman, Co-Founder, Managing Partner, Bacchus Capital. Photo Credit: Chris Bidleman

Bacchus Capital Sponsors 23rd Annual Wine Industry Financial Symposium September 22, 2014

Bacchus Capital Management is a Sponsor of the 23rd Annual Wine Industry Financial Symposium’s “Let The Good Times Roll” Conference at the Napa Valley Marriott in Napa, CA.   The conference takes place Monday September 22nd & Tuesday, September 23rd, 2014.

Click Here for more details or to register for the conference.

Peter Kaufman Speaks on Panel on Investing in Wine, Spirits & Craft Brews on May 6th, 2014

Peter Kaufman spoke on a panel at a Nixon Peabody roundtable in Chicago on May 6th, “What’s on Tap? Trends in Investing in Wine, Spirits & Craft Brews”

Christian Bugyis, Director, Beverage Finance Group, BMO Harris Bank

Marc Bushala, CEO, Louisville Distilling Company, Producer & Brand Owner of Angel’s Envy

Garth Hankinson, VP of Corporate Development, Constellation Brands

Peter Kaufman, Co-founder and Managing Partner, Bacchus Capital Management

Lee Tussing, SVP of Strategy and Revenue Management, Constellation Brands Beer Division

“Beyond Napa” Wine Tasting & Lunch in NYC – April, 2014

Celebrated Winemakers Chris Upchurch, of DeLille Cellars, of DeLille Cellars – Red Mountain and Yakima Valley, Washington State and Ed Sbragia, of Sbragia Family Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma, California showcased favorite library wines and current releases in NYC this April, at an event entitled “Beyond Napa”. DeLille’s vertical tasting (2006, 07, 08) of its Grand Ciel Cabernet Sauvignon met with rave reviews as did Sbragia’s renowned 2007 Monte Rosso Cabernet Sauvignon and classic Gino’s Zinfandel.

Chris Upchurch at Beyond Napa Wine Tasting

Chris Upchurch at Beyond Napa Wine Tasting

Ed Sbragia & Chris Upchurch at Beyond Napa Wine Tasting

Ed Sbragia & Chris Upchurch at Beyond Napa Wine Tasting

 

Ed Sbragia at Beyond Napa Wine Tasting

Ed Sbragia at Beyond Napa Wine Tasting

Chris Upchuch eating lunch with guests

Chris Upchuch eating lunch with guests

L-R: Jay Soloff, co-founder & national sales manager, DeLille, Chris Upchurch, Winemaker, DeLille and Ed Sbragia, Winemaker Sbragia Family Vineyards

L-R: Jay Soloff, co-founder, DeLille, Chris Upchurch, and Ed Sbragia.

 

 

March 14, 2014 – Bacchus Sponsors 2nd Annual iBev Digital & Social Media Conference for the Beverage Industry

Bacchus Capital is a sponsor for the 2nd Annual iBev Digital & Social Media Conference for the Beverage Industry

iBev by Bottlenotes, Inc

Friday, March 14, 2014 from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM (PDT) San Francisco, CA

you may enter our special promotional code, BACCHUS at checkout to take advantage of the discounted group rate ($350 vs $695) for regular admission.

For more information and to register, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2nd-annual-ibev-digital-social-media-conference-for-the-beverage-industry-tickets-8996802679

March 12-13, 2014 Wine Symposium Group’s 2014 20th Annual Central Coast Insights, San Luis Obispo, CA

March 12-13, 2014

Bacchus Capital is a sponsor for this event.

For more info, please visit:
http://register.winesymposium.com/central-coast-program.aspx.

February 25-26, 2014
Oregon Convention Center, Portland, OR

Quinton Jay speaking on a panel on Financial Sustainability at the Oregon Wine Symposium Tuesday, February 25 at 2pm

Information available here.

November 21, 2013 · 5:30 pm City Club of San Francisco

Quinton Jay speaking on a Wine Industry Panel at San Francisco Financial Executives International Dinner Event

Information available here.

November 7-8, 2013 Quinton Jay Co-Chairing The Seminar Group’s “Building Value in the Wine Business and Planning for Purchase, Sale and Succession” Seminar Napa Valley Marriott, Napa, CA

Other panelists include: Bacchus Capital Strategic Advisors Tammy Boatright (Founder/President, VingDirect) and Steve Cousins (General Manager, Sbragia Family Vineyards & COO, Madrigal Family Vineyards); Greg Lill (Co-Owner/CEO, DeLille Cellars, a Bacchus Portfolio Winery)

For more info, please visit:

http://www.theseminargroup.net/seminar.lasso?seminar=13.WPSCA#agenda

June 3-4, 2013 Bacchus Capital Wine Tasting Reception and Best Practices Seminar San Francisco, CA

bacchus-team

Entire Bacchus Capital Team and Portfolio Wineries: Andretti Winery, DeLille Cellars, Madrigal Family Winery, Maritime Wine, Qupé, Panther Creek Cellars, Sbragia Family Vineyards, and Wine By Joe/Dobbes Family Estate

April 2013 Bacchus Capital Co-Founders Visit Sbragia

partners

Bacchus Capital Co-Founders (L to R) Peter Kaufman, Sam Bronfman and Henry Owsley at Sbragia Family Vineyards.

November 9, 2012
The Seminar Group’s “The Purchase and Sale of Wineries and Vineyards” Seminar

The Meritage Resort & Spa, Napa, CA

Quinton Jay, Managing Director of Bacchus participated on two panels:

1:15pm – Winery and Vineyard Purchase and Sale Transactions and Alternatives. Key Definitive Agreement Provisions for Maximizing Seller Value and Minimizing Seller Risk

3pm – Financing: What Lenders are Looking For and How to Set Yourself Up for Funding

For more info, please visit:
theseminargroup.net/seminar.lasso?seminar=12.wpsCA

September 24-25, 2012
Wine Symposium Group’s 2012 Wine Industry Financial Symposium”
Thinking Positive – A Bright New Day for the Wine Industry”

Napa Valley Marriott, Napa, CA

Bacchus Capital is a Sponsor for the event

For more info, please visit:

http://register.winesymposium.com/2012.aspx

May 31, 2012
Moss Adams Wine Industry Financial Roundtable

Vintners Inn, Santa Rosa, CA

Quinton Jay, Managing Director of Bacchus participated in a panel discussion hosted by Moss Adams entitled: “Where’s the Money? An update on Financing Markets”

May 30, 2012
International Wine Industry Leaders Discuss US Wine Market Investment Opportunities: A panel discussion hosted by Withers LLP

Four Seasons Hotel, Florence, Italy

Sam Bronfman, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Bacchus discusses investment opportunities in the US wine market, specifically the opportunities for Italian wine producers to expand into the US via private equity investments or acquisitions. He was joined by Ettore Nicoletto, Consorzio Italia del Vino, and Francesco Zonin, Casa Vinicola Zonin. The panel was moderated by Paolo Panerai, Editor-in-Chief and CEO of Class Editori Spa.

From left – right: Sam Bronfman (Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Bacchus Capital, Gabriel Monzon-Cortarelli (Of Counsel, Withers New York), Roberta Crivellaro (Managing Partner, Withers Milan) and Anthony Indaimo (Chairman, Withers Milan).
From left – right: Sam Bronfman (Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Bacchus Capital, Gabriel Monzon-Cortarelli (Of Counsel, Withers New York), Roberta Crivellaro (Managing Partner, Withers Milan) and Anthony Indaimo (Chairman, Withers Milan).

April 18, 2012
North Bay Business Journal’s 12th Annual Wine Industry Conference

Hyatt Vineyard Creek, Santa Rosa, CA

Peter Kaufman, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Bacchus addressed “The State of Financing in the Wine Industry Today”

Bacchus was a Corporate Sponsor of the event

For more info, please visit:

http://www.northbaybusinessjournal.com/49723/2012-wine-industry-conference-registration/
You may also view the flyer here

March 29, 2012
Napa Valley Grapegrowers 2012 AHEAD OF THE CURVE “Strategies for Success in a New Market”

Silverado Resort, Napa, CA

Bacchus Capital was a Premiere Sponsor for the Napa Valley Grapegrower’s event

For more info, please visit:

http://napagrowers.org/events/nvg-events-2012/ahead-of-the-curve/seminar-agenda/

March 26-27, 2012
Opal Financial Group’s 6th Annual Private Equity Summit for Institutional Investors “New Relationships, New Markets, New Models: How to navigate the evolving and shifting landscape”

Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, CA

For more info, please visit:

http://www.opalgroup.net/

March 15, 2012
Wine Symposium Group’s 2012 Central Coast Insights Program, “The Central Coast Wine Industry Looks to the Future”

Embassy Suites Hotel, San Luis Obispo, CA

Michael Meluskey, CFO of Qupé, a Bacchus Capital Management’s Portfolio company, spoke on the panel – Show me the money ! Global, local and winery outlooks”

Bacchus Was a Sponsor of the conference.

For more info, please visit:

http://register.winesymposium.com/central-coast-program.aspx

September 19-20, 2011
Peter Kaufman, Managing Partner, speaking on panel at 2011 Wine Industry Financial Symposium at the Napa Valley Marriott

Topic: HOW TO BUILD VALUE IN A WINE COMPANY, Business Planning: How to develop a roadmap and plan for increasing value and profitability; building strong brand equity; optimizing distribution channels; preparing the company for transition.

Panelists: Rick Boland, Sr. Business Consultant, Moss Adams LLP
Peter Kaufman, Managing Partner, Bacchus Capital Management
Dan Leese, Partner, V2 Wine Group
Mario Zepponi, Principal, Zepponi & Company
Dennis Carroll, President, Sonoma Wine Company

For more info, please visit:

http://register.winesymposium.com
Peter Kaufman’s Presentation