Washington Wine Institute Responds to Industry Growth

The Washington Wine Institute (WWI), the advocacy arm of the Washington wine industry, today announced organizational changes that will serve to maximize its effectiveness on behalf of a rapidly growing and increasingly important state industry. WWI will become administratively independent from the Washington Wine Commission. A new Executive Director has been named, and the base of operations will move from the Washington Wine Center in Seattle to the Wine Institute's new home in the State Capitol of Olympia, WA.

The Board of Directors of the Wine Institute makes this decision at an exciting time for the Washington wine industry. The number of wineries has grown from less than 20 when the Institute was created over 20 years ago to over 500 producers today. Washington wines are distributed to all 50 states and to over 40 countries. As the industry continues its growth, the need for effective, focused advocacy becomes even more essential.

Olympia insider Jean Leonard will serve as Executive Director of the Washington Wine Institute. Prior to reorganization, Robin Pollard served as Executive Director of both the Washington Wine Commission and Wine Institute. Leonard brings to the position almost a decade of experience advocating on behalf of the wine industry on the state level. She has worked strategically to influence the process and tenor of discussion over regulatory, policy and funding issues. During her time in Olympia, Leonard has represented a broad range of clients, from the arts to insurance interests.

Martin Clubb, owner of L'Ecole N°41 and President of the Board of the Washington Wine Institute, expressed his optimism about the moves. "We are excited about the organizational changes and know that they will help the Washington Wine Institute to keep pace with the needs of an evolving Washington wine industry."

Washington Wine Commission Executive Director Robin Pollard added that the separation will help distinguish the purposes of the two organizations. "The Washington Wine Commission is dedicated to positioning and promoting the state as one of the most outstanding wine regions in the world. The separation will enable us to devote even greater focus to our efforts, while entrusting industry advocacy to an experienced and proven professional."

The Washington Wine Institute will continue to lobby on behalf of the industry, keep its membership informed of pertinent legislative activities and serve as regulatory liaison to the Washington State Liquor Control Board. In addition, WWI will take on administrative responsibilities previously undertaken by the WWC, and it will work collaboratively with the Washington Wine Commission, when appropriate, on industry activities.

About the Washington Wine Institute
The Washington Wine Institute, a 501(C) (6) membership organization, is comprised predominantly of wine producers, with associate memberships extended to wine grape growers and wine associations. WWI advocates on regulatory and legislative issues affecting the wine industry in Washington State. It was formed in 1984 as a grassroots effort to ensure that state legislators and policymakers consider industry needs. It is governed by a Board of Directors elected by the membership at its annual meeting. For more information, visit www.washingtonwineinstitute.com

About the Washington Wine Commission
The Washington Wine Commission, a state agency created in 1987, is responsible for the promotion and development of the Washington wine industry, representing over 500 wineries, 350 wine grape growers and 31,000 vineyard acres. For more information, visit www.washingtonwine.org or e-mail info@washingtonwine.org.