The Legends of Washington Wine Gala is an annual fundraiser of the Walter Clore Wine & Culinary Center[1] that honors individuals whose contributions to the community and the wine industry are of historical and lasting significance. This summer’s event will be held August 10, 2012 in Prosser, Wash., when the newest member of the Washington Wine Hall of Fame (as yet to be announced) will be inducted. Every year, an exclusive red blend is released to commemorate the event and the Clore Center has announced Brian Carter as the honorary 2012 Legends blend winemaker.
Photo: Winemaker Brian Carter after a 16-hour day at the winery during last year’s crush.
Carter says, “During my first couple of decades in the industry, I was fortunate enough to have spent quality time with Dr. Walter Clore[2], both in and out of the vineyards. This blend is a tribute to Walter Clore’s vision and his dedication to the success of Washington Wine. I know Walter would be thrilled to see so many distinctive varieties contributing to the wondrous wines being made in Washington today.” His Legends blend will consist of 32% Counoise, 20% Mourvedre, 20% Syrah, 16% Cinsault, and 12% Grenache.
Brian Carter’s career began with study of microbiology at Oregon State University followed by two years at the University of California-Davis School of Enology.
Carter’s impact on the Washington wine industry began with his work at Paul Thomas Winery where he was twice touted as “Winemaker of the Year” by Washington Magazine. Carter then began expanding his career as a consulting winemaker for a series of young wineries including McCrea Cellars, Hedges Family Cellars, Randall Harris, Silver Lake, and others.
Carter went on to create a small production of his own wine “Solesce” in 1997 at the Apex winery where he was winemaker and co-owner (today Apex is owned by Precept Wine). This initial production quickly sold out and led to the introduction of his signature series of wines, and the opening of Brian Carter Cellars‘ Woodinville tasting room in 2006.
“It’s great to see my passion for blended wines transformed into these new European-style blends using Washington State grapes,” he says. The Brian Carter Collection epitomizes his commitment to quality, taste, and terroir.
Since his 1980 arrival into the Washington wine industry, Carter has earned numerous accolades including being the only three-time recipient of the Pacific Northwest Enological Society’s Grand Prize, and being chosen as the Honored Vintner at the 2007 Auction of Washington Wines.
The Legends blend will be released at the 2012 Legends of Washington Wine Gala on August 10, 2012. This garden party style event features the induction of the newest member of the Washington Wine Hall of Fame, release of the newest Legends blend, and a live auction. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.theclorecenter.org or call 509-786-1000.
About thre Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center
[1] Named after the late Dr. Walter J. Clore, the Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center will be a centrally located, must-see learning center that promotes Washington State wine and food by actively engaging visitors to experience and realize the quality and diversity of Washington’s wine and food products.
[2] Dr. Walter 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 the Washington Wine Industry.” Still in its infancy, Washington state has much more to reveal in planting areas and suitable varietals.