Auction of Washington Wines Pushed To Global Stage By Private Barrel Auction

In just four years, the Private Barrel Auction has gone from a small trade-exclusive event that featured eight wineries, to an event that will include 30 of the most noted winemakers across the Evergreen state.  Unlike other auctions in the U.S. that highlight specific wine regions, the Private Barrel Auction focuses on the entire state of Washington to raise awareness and generate innovation for the future of the state’s wine industry.

Auction of Washington Wines said the Private Barrel Auction is committed to innovation, investing 100% of last year’s proceeds, $137,500, in Washington State University’s Viticulture and Enology Research Program in the Tri-Cities.  WSU’s program fosters education that is paving the way for the Washington wine industry and its leadership on a global scale.  AWW is the largest private donor to WSU’s Viticulture and Enology Research Program, contributing nearly one quarter of all the research money for WSU in 2017.

At the Private Barrel Auction, attendees are invited to sample and live-bid on exclusively crafted wines made one time only and not available elsewhere. This opportunity allows the discerning trade community to differentiate themselves with unique, distinct Washington wine selections and the exclusivity of ownership with the 60-bottle allotment they purchase. Of the thirty-plus wineries participating this year, Betz Family Winery has been involved since the beginning.

“Washington’s wine community has experienced unprecedented growth, now ranking as the second largest premium wine producer in the U.S. Each year the Private Barrel Auction has grown as well, offering serious national trade members the opportunity to acquire the finest, most unique examples of the state’s wines. And it’s fun! A time of year when the best of the best come together to celebrate our industry and the future of Washington wines,” said Bob Betz, founder and consulting winemaker at Betz Family Winery.

This year’s Private Barrel Auction is set for August 16, 2018. To learn more and register, visit AWW's Website.

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