Aug 25, 2017

Arizona Wine Growers Association elects new board members

The Arizona Wine Growers Association (AWGA) has announced the election and the re-election of members to its board of directors and officers for period through 2018. AWGA is governed by eight growers in three districts who serve one- or two-year terms.

The new directors are Kief Manning, owner/winemaker of Kief-Joshua Vineyards; Barb Coons, owner of Four Tails Vineyard; Cory Whalin, owner/winemaker of Su Vino Winery; Lori Reynolds, owner/winemaker of Sonoita Vineyards; and Michael Pierce, director of enology at Yavapai College, owner/winemaker Saeculum Cellars and Bodega Pierce.

Re-elected directors, are Brian Predmore, owner of Alcantara Vineyards and Winery; Ann Roncone, owner of Lightning Ridge Cellars; and John Smith, owner of Sierra Bonita Vineyards.

The elected officers are Brian Predmore, president; Kief Manning, vice president; Ann Roncone, treasurer; and John Smith, secretary.

AWGA advocates for industry policies, research, leadership, and public education. The Arizona Wine Growers Association represents over 70 percent of the state industry’s wine producers. Its five-year strategic plan includes focusing on marketing, legislation and promotion of the Arizona wine industry in the state.

AWGA has several signature wine festivals starting with the newest event at the University of Arizona, Festival at the Farm on Nov. 11. There will be a dinner to honor the founding fathers of the Arizona wine industry on Friday, Nov. 10. The Grand Wine Gala on Friday, Jan. 26, 2018, where Arizona Republic presents the Arizona Wine Awards, will be held in Downtown Phoenix, followed by the Grand Wine Festival Saturday and Sunday, Ja. 27 and 28, 2018, at Heritage Square. The Oro Valley Wine Festival is Saturday, Feb. 17, 2018, at Steam Pump Ranch in Oro Valley.