Just saw an email from the folks at Avennia (a Washington State winery). Here’s the text:
Today, we have some exciting news to share: Avennia has acquired Gramercy Cellars, the Walla Walla-based winery founded twenty years ago by Master Sommelier Greg Harrington.
“Gramercy Cellars is one of the wineries that compelled the rest of the country to take Washington seriously,” said Chris Peterson, co-founder and director of winemaking at Avennia. “Greg created and developed this winery with his own unique voice. Our job is not to change or reinvent his vision, but rather to provide him with the resources and support necessary to continue taking this project to new heights.”
We believe Gramercy is a natural addition to our portfolio, winemaking philosophy, and long-term goals. Both Gramercy and Avennia were founded on the belief that Washington can produce world-class wines. Both take a site-driven approach, using minimal intervention in the winery to allow the character of the vineyard to shine.
The acquisition also strengthens our presence in the important winegrowing region of Walla Walla and gives us access to another estate vineyard: Forgotten Hills, an organically farmed, cool-climate site at the base of the Blue Mountains. Together, we also see an opportunity to further elevate the reputation of Washington wine in restaurants and on-premise venues throughout the country.
“We have admired this winery and its people for a long time,” said Marty Taucher, co-founder of Avennia. “This is a stewardship decision as much as a business one.”
Chris Peterson will serve as director of winemaking and he and our team will work closely with Greg Harrington to maintain the style and character that Gramercy customers know and love. Gramercy will continue to operate as an independent brand under its own name and label within the Avennia portfolio.
What this means for you:
** Avennia tasting rooms, wine club, and production will continue to operate without changes.*
** Gramercy will maintain its Walla Walla tasting room and production facility.*
** Avennia and Gramercy will remain separate brands, each with its own identity and wines.*
We are excited about what this new chapter means for both Avennia and Gramercy, and we look forward to sharing more with you in the months ahead.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Warmly,
The Avennia Team
This is certainly surprising and, in a way, I guess a positive thing. I’m a fan of both wineries and truly hope two different styles continue, even under single ownership.