June 01, 2004

Don't get just any wine, get "Naked"

Prosser, WA— Snoqualmie Vineyards goes out in the buff, with the introduction of its Naked wine series, including "Naked" Gewurztraminer, a wine made with 100% certified organically grown grapes, and "Nearly Naked" Riesling, sourced from a vineyard that has been farmed organically for the past three years, and whose organic certification is in process.

The wines are produced in limited quantities (600 cases of Naked, 500 cases Nearly Naked) and are available at the winery at a suggested retail price of $11. Plans include introducing both wines nationally in 2005, as well as expanding the organic line.

For years Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Snoqualmie's parent company, has been the leader in viticultural research in Washington State. "Health and preservation of vineyards and its relationship to grape quality, has long been in the forefront of the company's philosophy. We've spent countless hours studying a variety of issues from irrigation and canopy management, to natural pest control," said Kevin Corliss, Director of Viticulture for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates.

"We've worked closely with our vineyard managers, with other wineries, contracted growers and Washington State University to constantly improve growing practices and conserve natural resources in our state. It's rewarding to see the results of some of this research finally reaching the consumer in a tangible way," said Corliss.

Organically farmed and produced, "Naked" is an aromatic wine bursting with fragrant honeysuckle, litchi nut and peach, while hallmark spiciness on the palate is carried through to the finish. Like a baby in its birthday suit, the Naked Gewürztraminer is a pure expression of nature.

"Nearly Naked" showcases true Riesling characteristics of Washington State. Classic apple and peach flavors, with crisp acidity and a lingering off-dry finish gives us time to appreciate what Mother Nature has created.

Veteran winemaker Joy Andersen is known for her simple yet elegant winemaking style, showcasing true varietal fruit flavors in her finished wine. "My philosophy in making Snoqualmie wines has always been to simply enhance what nature provides, adding just the bare essentials of winemaking. In producing wines with organically grown grapes, I'm just raising the bar and taking it one step further down that path," says Andersen. "By implementing organic and sustainable growing practices, we are challenging ourselves in the vineyards as well as in the cellar, and I'm delighted with the results."

The project is part of an ongoing effort by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates to lead to way in elevating recognition for Washington State as one of the premium wine growing regions in the world. "Incorporating organic farming practices is an integral part of our commitment to long term quality, both in terms of our wines and our vineyards," said Ted Baseler, president & CEO of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates. "Our wines have always expressed the region, the soils, and the climate that make Washington State so unique, and we want to preserve the Northwest's natural identity and showcase its potential to wine consumers globally."

Founded in 1984, Snoqualmie Vineyards is one of Washington's first premium wineries, and has been producing classic varietal wines from Columbia Valley vineyards for two decades. The winery label was purchased by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates in 1991. Best known for its award winning Merlot and Syrahs, Cabernet-Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc, Snoqualmie's reputation for releasing approachable, food-friendly wines has been recognized across the country by critics and consumers alike. The wines are available nationally in restaurants and fine wine shops. For further information on Snoqualmie wines, please visit the Website at www.snoqualmie.com, or call toll free at 800.852.0885. The winery is located at 660 Frontier Road, in Prosser, Washington, just off I-82, about 20 miles from its sister winery, Columbia Crest.