Nominations are now open for the 2012 Legends of Washington Wine Hall of Fame.  Nominees are individuals who exemplify legendary status because of contributions and commitment to the Washington wine industry. Eligible candidates must have been Washington residents for 25 years and involved in the wine industry for 25 years. Nomination forms and criteria are available on the website on the Legends of Washington Wine drop-down list under the ‘Events’ tab.

A selection committee considers the nominee’s impact on the wine industry, contributions to the community, and their historical and lasting significance for future generations. The selection committee includes representatives from each of the state’s viticultural regions. Committee members independently review and rate the nominees. The Legends Gala honoring the 2012 inductee will be hosted at the Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center’s Vineyard Pavilion on the evening of Friday, August 10, 2012.

Previous inductees to the Hall of Fame include: S.W. “Bill” Preston, founder of Preston Premium Wines; John and Ann Williams and Jim and Pat Holmes, wine pioneers from Red Mountain; Stan Clarke, a 30-year industry veteran; John Anderson, a visionary and mentor who believed Washington would compete globally based on premium quality grapes; David Lake, MW, renowned for his experimentation with new varietals and for wine innovations; Bill Powers, pioneer of  low-impact and organic viticulture; and Dr. Myles Anderson, founder of the Institute for Enology and Viticulture at Walla Walla Community College. A commissioned bronze piece will remain on display at the Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center to memorialize each inductee.

The Legends of Washington Wine Hall of Fame is a project of the Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center.  Named after the late Dr. Walter J. Clore, the Clore Center will be a centrally located, must-see learning center that promotes Washington wine and food by engaging visitors to experience the diversity and quality of Washington’s wine and food products.

Dr. Clore began his life’s work in 1937, studying vinifera grapes and their potential for growth in Washington soils.  His research, a cornerstone of the industry’s development, earned him official recognition from the Washington State Legislature as the “Father of Washington Wine”.

The Center’s site, located in Prosser off I-82 at Exit 82, overlooks the Yakima River and offers views of the Horse Heaven Hills and Rattlesnake Mountain. Prosser was chosen because of its distinction as home of the largest irrigated agricultural research center in the United States (WSU-Irrigated Ag Research and Extension Center) where Dr. Clore conducted his research.

The main, 15,000 square foot Clore Center and grounds, designed to complement its natural surroundings, will feature a demonstration kitchen, tasting area (wine and food) and retail space and will offer indoor and outdoor venues for conferences, meetings, business and social events. The Center is currently in the design phase, with construction scheduled to begin in fall of 2012 and completion toward the end of 2013.

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In this issue . . .

• Clore Center Design Underway
• Capital Campaign
• Vineyard Pavilion
• Clore Center Hosts Reception for Wine Commission’s New Executive Director
• ’UnWined’ at the Clore Center
• Save the Date for Moteur de Vine Motorcycle Ride
• Save the Date for Legends of Washington Wine Hall of Fame Gala
• Clore Center Role and Goals
• Painting Party Makes a Splash

Clore Center Design Underway

At a press conference held during the annual meeting of the Washington Association of Wine Grape Growers in February, the Clore Center and the Port of Benton announced that ALSC Architects of Spokane, Washington had been selected to design the 15,000 square foot Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center.

Jeff Warner, AIA, LEED, of ALSC Architects discussed the firm’s excitement at having been chosen. Jeff described how ALSC was working with the Clore Center to define spaces and capacities of the facility. Designed to complement its natural surroundings, the wine- and agri-tourism Center and grounds will offer several indoor and outdoor venues including a tasting area (wine and food), demonstration kitchen, agriculture and viticulture exhibits, classrooms, conference rooms, retail space, office space, instructional vineyards, interpretive/production gardens and a pathway along the Yakima River. Construction is scheduled to begin this fall with completion late 2013.

In addition to Mike Hogue, who represented the Clore Board, several other individuals were on hand to provide supportive comments during the press conference. Representatives included: Chris Stone, Deputy Director of the Washington Wine Commission; Lynne Chamberlain, President of the Washington Association of Wine Grape Growers; Dr. Dan Bernardo, Dean of the College of Agriculture, Natural, Human and Resource Sciences at Washington State University; and Marv Kinney, Director of Special Projects for the Port of Benton.

Capital Campaign
With nearly 90% of funding secured to build the Center, the final phase of private fundraising is underway. These funds will be used for furniture, fixtures and equipment as well as operating expenses between now and opening of the Center doors in 2013. Won’t you please consider a donation today?  For more information, contact Kathy at the Clore Center office at 509.786.1000 or kathy@theclorecenter.org.

Meet and Greet Reception to Welcome Steve Warner – April 2, 2012
The Clore Center will host grape growers and winery representatives from the Yakima Valley and beyond at a reception to welcome the Washington State Wine Commission’s new Executive Director Steve Warner. The reception will is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, April 2, 2012 in the Vineyard Pavilion. If you are interested in attending, please contact Kathy Corliss at the Clore Center office at 509.786.1000.

Vineyard Pavilion
Since opening its doors in June 2011, the Walter Clore Vineyard Pavilion has been host to board meetings, training seminars, luncheons, weddings, retirement parties, and holiday receptions. The flexible space offers a new and unique venue option for weddings, meetings and events in the Yakima Valley. Individuals and industry groups have made use of the space, with great results. “It has been very exciting for the Washington State Wine Commission to see the Clore Center move toward completion in 2013. The Vineyard Pavilion offers a unique space to host trade events and industry meetings,” says Chris Stone, Deputy Director for Washington State Wine Commission.

Through the winter months, the glass enclosed space and indoor fireplace provide an elegant and charming environment for dinner parties of up to 50 guests. Business focused events will enjoy amenities like a wireless microphone, a large wall-mounted TV screen, and wireless internet access. Looking ahead to spring and summer, the Vineyard Pavilion can host graduation parties, weddings, anniversary parties and more. These events will have the luxury of using the indoor facilities with access to the outdoor patios for up to 160 guests. Tenting to accommodate larger gatherings is an option. The large catering kitchen can accommodate both large and small events. Abbey Cameron, Marketing & Event Coordinator, is available to share ideas, recommend caterers, and make your event a success. For pricing and details, contact Abbey at 509-786-1000 or info@theclorecenter.org

UnWined at the Clore Center – April 28, 2012
After the fun and excitement of Spring Barrel Tasting, spend your evening relaxing and watching the sunset on the lovely grounds of the Vineyard Pavilion. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy the acoustic sounds of the Knutzen Brothers. Wines will be available by the glass from Hogue Cellars, Mercer Estates, Pontin Del Roza, Snoqualmie and more to go along with yummy treats from Cowgirl Crepes, Chef Magaña Catering and others.

UnWined at the Clore Center
Saturday, April 28, 2012
6pm-9pm
$10 entry fee, wine and food available for purchase
Blankets or lawn chairs are recommended
21+ only, please

For more details, call the Clore Center at 509.786.1000. All proceeds benefit the Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center and the Prosser Winery Association.

Save the Date for Moteur de Vine Ride
This year’s benefit motorcycle ride takes us to the beautiful Olympic Peninsula! The dates have been shifted slightly in hopes of finding good weather, so the ride will be in July rather than June this year. The date for the ride is July 27-29, 2012, and you don’t want to miss it!! Saturday’s ride includes a trip to Neah Bay – 249 curves in 63 miles! Final plans and arrangements are being made now and will be distributed as soon as everything is in line.

Mark your calendar and plan to join in the fun! Remember that a shuttle bus will go everywhere the bikes go, so you can go along even if you don’t ride. If you are interested in more information, contact Kathy to make sure you are added to the email group.

Save the Date for Legends
Mark your calendar for August 10, 2012 as we induct the newest member of the Legends of Washington Wine Hall of Fame.

The Legends of Washington Wine Gala is held each August to honor the newest Washington Wine Hall of Fame inductee, and to celebrate the release of the latest Legends red wine blend. Nominations for the 2012 Legends of Washington Wine Hall of Fame are now open. Nominees are individuals who exemplify legendary status because of contributions and commitment to the Washington wine industry. Eligible candidates must have been Washington residents for 25 years and involved in the wine industry for 25 years. Nomination forms will be available on March 30, and submissions are due by April 30. Nomination forms and criteria will be posted at www.theclorecenter.org.

Previous inductees to the Hall of Fame include:

S.W. “Bill” Preston, founder of Preston Premium Wines;
John and Ann Williams and Jim and Pat Holmes, wine pioneers from Red Mountain;
Stan Clarke, a 30-year industry veteran;
John Anderson, a visionary and mentor who believed Washington would compete globally based on premium quality grapes;
David Lake, MW, renowned for his experimentation with new varietals and for wine innovations;
Bill Powers, pioneer of  low-impact and organic viticulture;
and Dr. Myles Anderson, founder of the Institute for Enology and Viticulture at Walla Walla Community College.

A commissioned bronze piece will remain on display at the Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center to memorialize each inductee.

Painting Party was Fun for All!!
On March 26, 2012, the Clore Center hosted Corks & Canvas Events for a fun, artistic event. Twenty-five participants were given step-by-step instructions to create the “Wine Bottle” themed painting. Those in attendance enjoyed red wines from the Legends series as well as whites from Pontin Del Roza. And just for fun, Park Lane Jewelry was on site with some fun earrings, bracelets and necklaces available for purchase. To stay up-to-date on future events at the Clore Center visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/clorecenter or check the website at www.theclorecenter.org.

Clore Center Role and Goals
Named after the late Dr. Walter J. Clore, the Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center is a non-profit organization focused on wine and food marketing and education to consumers, wine and food industry and trade, and media.  For additional information, visit www.theclorecenter.org.

Goals:

• Promote Washington State wine and food by building an understanding through education of the quality and diversity of the State’s wine and food products
• Increase brand awareness
• Expand market demand
• Create jobs
• Foster industry collaboration

P.O. Box 1228 • 2140 Wine Country Road • Prosser, WA 99350 • 509.786.1000 • www.theclorecenter.org

For Immediate Release
CONTACT
Deb Heintz
Prosser Economic Development Association
509-786-3600

Walter Clore Center and Port of Benton Announce Architect

Kennewick, WA – During the annual meeting of the Washington Association of Wine Grape Growers, Clore Board Representative Mike Hogue announced that ALSC Architects of Spokane, Washington had been contracted to design the 15,000 square foot Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center.

Named in honor of the late Dr. Walter J. Clore, the Center will promote the quality and diversity of Washington State wine and food through education and hands-on experience. The Clore Center will be located in Prosser, Washington on 24 acres overlooking the Yakima River. Prosser is home to the largest irrigated agricultural research center in the United States (WSU-IAREC) where Dr. Clore began his research in 1937 on small fruits and vegetables. The Clore Center site is easily accessible by car from I-82, Exit 82.

The Clore Center has a strong working relationship, as well as an operating agreement, with the Port of Benton. The two entities were co-applicants and recipients of a $2 Million Public Works Grant awarded by the Economic Development Administration (EDA) in April of 2011. During the press conference, supportive comments were offered by representatives from the Port of Benton as well as Washington State Wine Commission, Washington Association of Wine Grape Growers and Washington State University.

Jeff Warner, AIA, LEED, of ALSC Architects discussed the firm’s excitement at having been selected to design the Center. He described how ALSC was working with the Clore Center to define spaces and capacities of the facility. Designed to complement its natural surroundings, the conceptual 15,000 square foot wine- and agri-tourism Center and grounds will offer several indoor and outdoor venues including a tasting room, demonstration kitchen, agriculture and viticulture exhibits, classrooms, conference rooms, office space, retail shop, instructional vineyards, interpretive and production gardens and a walkway along the Yakima River. Fundraising is on-going for these fundamental assets in addition to furniture, fixtures and equipment.

While the Clore Center is being designed and built, the Vineyard Pavilion, a 2,400 square foot satellite building to the main Center, is open and available for event rental. Held in August of each year, the Legends of Washington Wine gala and the annual Prosser Wine & Food Fair permanently relocated to the Clore grounds in 2011.  Contact the Clore Center’s Marketing and Event Coordinator, Abbey Cameron, at 509-786-1000 or at abbey@theclorecenter.org for more information.

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In this issue…

• Legends of Washington Wine Hall of Fame Celebration
• New York Wine Centers Tour
• Capital Campaign
• Clore Center Role and Goals
• Vineyard Pavilion Available for Events
• Future Wine Science Center Role and Goals

Legends of Washington Wine Hall of Fame Celebration
Dr. Myles J. Anderson was honored as the 2011 Legends of Washington Wine inductee by more than 250 industry peers at the celebration held on Friday, August 12, 2011. Dr. Anderson’s distinguished career as author of several instructional texts and Founding Director of the Institute for Enology and Viticulture at Walla Walla Community College, now retired, continues to have a positive impact on the industry with more than 1,600 students completing the coursework since the program was launched. In addition, Dr. Anderson is co-owner/winemaker of Walla Walla Vintners, the eighth winery to open in the Walla Walla Valley.

An annual fundraising program in support of the Clore Center, Legends honors those whose contributions to the community and the wine industry are of historical and lasting significance. More than $30,000 was raised this year through event sponsorships, live and silent auctions and the sale of the Legends red wine, a 2009 Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon blend made by winemaker John Freeman of Waterbrook Winery and sourced from Canyon Ranch, one of Waterbrook’s estate vineyards near Prosser.

New York Wine Centers Tour
Clore Board members Deb Heintz, Bob Stevens and Charlie Bush and Deputy Director for the Washington State Wine Commission, Chris Stone traveled to New York in late July to tour the New York Wine and Culinary Center and the new Finger Lakes Wine Center in preparation for the design and construction phases of the future Clore Center.

Key findings:

• Open with no debt
• Use a commercial architect.
• Create flexible space
• Use natural light
• Evolve to meet market demand over time

Capital Campaign
The final phase of private fundraising is underway.
If you are a private donor and would like to be involved, contact Kathy Corliss at the Clore Center: (509) 786-1000 or kathy@theclorecenter.org.

Clore Center Role and Goals
Named after the late Dr. Walter J. Clore, the Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center is a non-profit organization focused on wine and food marketing and education to consumers, wine and food industry and trade, and media.

Goals:

• Promote Washington State wine and food by building an understanding through education of the quality and diversity of the State’s wine and food products
• Increase brand awareness
• Expand market demand
• Create jobs
• Foster industry collaboration

Vineyard Pavilion Available for Events
The Vineyard Pavilion at the Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center is now scheduling meetings, events and weddings. The facility features floor-to-ceiling glass walls, indoor fireplace, wall-mounted large screen television and a catering kitchen. In the warmer months, the glass walls open onto one or two patios for indoor/outdoor events. With views overlooking the Yakima River, the Vineyard Pavilion hosts memorable events with wine country charm.

Planning a holiday event? Contact Abbey Cameron abbey@theclorecenter.org today to reserve your date.

Future Wine Science Center Role and Goals
The Wine Science Center is a branch of Washington State University focused on viticulture and enology research and education to undergraduate and graduate students and the wine industry.

For additional information, visit wine.wsu.edu.

Goals:

• Support growth of Washington State’s wine industry through viticulture and enology research and education
• Enhance leadership in agriculture and food research and education
• Increase economic vitality of Washington State
• Foster industry collaboration