BELLEVUE, Wash. – A new collection of wines donated by women in Washington’s winemaking and grape-growing industry, as well as woman business leaders, will make its debut on the block at January’s “Celebrate Washington Wine” gala dinner and auction. The annual black-tie event benefits Washington State University’s Viticulture and Enology Program.
The ninth annual “Celebrate Washington Wine” will be held on Saturday, Jan. 30, beginning at 6 pm at the Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, in Woodinville.
Laura Mrachek, a WSU alumna (’76) and owner with her husband Mike of Saint Laurent Estate Winery in Malaga, Wash., is the honorary chair for the new collection.
“It promises to be a sensational collection, and it’s sure to generate lively bidding,” Mrachek said in a recent letter requesting donations. “We welcome all vintages, varietals and bottle sizes (of Washington wines).”
The new collection is the brainchild of WSU alumna Cheri Brennan, a member of the gala’s organizing committee. All proceeds from the collection will be dedicated to scholarship support for women in the WSU Viticulture and Enology Program.
“Our annual CEO Collection of Washington wine donations from business and community leaders has been a longtime favorite at the auction, so adding the Women in Wine Collection seemed like a natural,” Brennan said. “There are so many women who are wine makers, grape growers, wine shop owners, and business leaders who enjoy wine and supporting other women that I’m sure we’ll have an outstanding collection.”
In its eight-year history, the event has netted more than a million dollars to build and support WSU’s wine science program that provides the research and training that supports Washington’s $3 billion wine industry. This year’s proceeds will be primarily dedicated to providing scholarships and student support.
To make reservations, or for more information about “Celebrate Washington Wine,” including how to donate auction items or become an event sponsor, visit http://www.wineauction.wsu.edu.
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