2017 Auction of Washington Wine Honorees

Auction of Washington Wines has announced their honorees for 2017 for their 30^th Anniversary celebration in August.

Tom Merkle, a second-generation grower in Outlook, has been named as the Honorary Grower of the Year. Merkle has partnered with several well-known wineries, and even started his own to showcase the quality of Wautoma Springs.

Sparkman Cellars of Woodinville was named Honorary Vintner. The winery has been touted as a rising star by Wine Spectator and their 2013 Birdie Riesling was named the #7 wine in the world by Wine Enthusiast.

Executive Editor of Wine Spectator Thomas Matthews was named the 2017 Honorary Chair. Wine Spectator is the largest-circulation wine magazine in the world.

The role of Honorary Chair is reserved for leaders in the field of wine who have demonstrated a sincere appreciation for Washington’s industry. The annual roles of Honorary Vintner and Honorary Grower are peer-nominated, bestowed upon individuals within the Washington wine industry who have made or are making an impact.

The 30^th Anniversary celebration takes place August 17^th-19^th

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