March 30, 2006

Snoqualmie Vineyards Introduces New Packaging

Prosser, WA— Snoqualmie Vineyards, one of Washington’s first premium wineries, introduces new packaging for its entire line of Columbia Valley wines. The first releases to feature the new labels are the 2004 Columbia Valley Sauvignon Blanc and the 2004 Columbia Valley Chardonnay, both releasing this month.

Snoqualmie’s new labels highlight hometown images which reflect the winery’s longtime roots in small-town Prosser, Washington. Created by Washington artist Brian Sostrom, each label tells the story of an aspect of life in Eastern Washington wine country, including rural icons such as the trusty tractor, railroad crossing, weathered barn, and lone mailbox. Other labels feature a weathervane and windmill, reminders of the community’s reliance on nature in crafting Snoqualmie’s acclaimed wines.

"The new packaging highlights Snoqualmie’s deep roots in Eastern Washington and the close connections between the land, the community, and the wines we produce,"explains Valerie Fayette, Product Manager for Snoqualmie. "These labels reflect winemaker Joy Andersen’s philosophy of balanced elegance and connection to natural surroundings, and capture the pure essence of Snoqualmie wines."

Snoqualmie’s Columbia Valley tier wines are crafted to be food-friendly and to emphasize the natural varietal flavors of the Northwest. Available nationally, these award-winning wines provide excellent value and can be enjoyed as part of any occasion.

Introduction of Snoqualmie’s new packaging will continue throughout 2006 and into 2007 with the release of new vintages of Merlot in April, Whistle Stop Red (a blend of Cabernet and Merlot) and Syrah in September, and Winemaker’s Select Riesling in January 2007.

Founded in 1984 and purchased by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates in 1991, Snoqualmie has been producing classic varietal wines from Columbia Valley vineyards for two decades under the leadership of winemaker Joy Andersen, who celebrates her 15th year as winemaker in 2006. Best known for its award winning Syrahs, Merlots, and Sauvignon Blanc, Snoqualmie’s reputation for distinctive wines of excellent value has been recognized across the country by critics and consumers alike.

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.