Columbia Crest Expands Grand Estates Tier with Amitage Red Blend and Moscato

Paterson, WA

Columbia Crest, recognized as the leading producer of acclaimed, high-quality wines from Washington state, has announced the addition of Amitage, a Red Blend, and Moscato to its Grand Estates tier of wines. The 2008 Grand Estates Amitage Red Blend and 2010 Grand Estates Moscato shipped Feb. 1, 2011 and are available nationally for a suggested retail price of $12.

2008 Grand Estates Amitage Red Blend
The name Amitage is the combination of "ami" the prefix meaning 'love' and heritage. Loosely translated, Amitage is an expression of the love and respect for the winery’s rich heritage. The blend isn’t restricted to certain varietals; instead emphasis is placed on quality and complexity. The 2008 vintage is comprised of 64% Merlot, 19% Syrah, 7% Cabernet Franc, 5.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4.5% Malbec and exhibits layered flavors of blackberries and plums with a subtle spiciness and silky mouthfeel that leads to a long, elegant finish.

According to AC Nielsen data, consumers are interested in red blends now more than ever, the category has been one of the strongest performing over the last year with volume growth of 41%.

"Washington state’s affinity for growing quality red varietals combined with Columbia Crest’s track record of consistently crafting distinctive, highly-acclaimed red wines make the addition of a red blend a natural fit," said Columbia Crest Senior Marketing Manager Cary Kloster.

2010 Grand Estates Moscato
The 2010 Grand Estates Moscato is an off-dry white wine comprised from several Muscat grape varieties (75% Muscat Canelli, 15% Morio-Muskat, 10% Black Muscat). Aromas of lychee and white rose lead to bright flavors of peaches and tangerine that are joined by the youthful sweetness of ripe honeydew deftly balanced with refreshing acidity.

"Like the red blend category, Moscato is becoming one of the most sought-after varietals among consumers," continues Kloster. "While the category is small, it is growing more than 40% in both volume and dollar sales over the last 52 weeks according to AC Nielsen data."

In addition to the Amitage Red Blend and Moscato, the Grand Estates tier also includes Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. All wines are available nationally for a suggested retail price of $12 per bottle.

Founded in 1983, Columbia Crest has grown from a small winery in a relatively unknown wine region to one of the most significant wineries in the U.S. and a major force behind Washington state’s emergence as a world class wine region. In 2009, Wine Spectator magazine named the Columbia Crest 2005 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon the No. 1 Wine in the World on its Top 100 list, the first time a wine from Washington state has received the ranking. Over the past 13 years, 16 Columbia Crest wines have been named to the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list. More information about the winery can be found at columbia-crest.com.

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For further information:
Erin Shane
425/415.3696
erin.shane@smwe.com