SANTA ROSA, CA— Russian River Valley Winegrowers (RRWV) has an uplifting message for guests and locals touring Northern California now that the fires have been put out for good. In a statement by RRVW Executive Director Wendy Hilberman, the organization announced that, “We want you to know that Sonoma County is open for business. Our air is clear, our doors are open, and fall is one of the most spectacular times to experience the incredible beauty of wine country.” She added that, “As our winegrowers and vintners welcome visitors back to Russian River Valley, we are united in our support for the greater community, and keeping Sonoma County Strong.”
It has been a difficult couple of weeks in Northern California. Thanks to the tireless efforts of CalFire, Volunteer Fire Departments and numerous support crews from around the country, the vineyards, wineries and homes in Russian River Valley remained safe and were spared from the fire’s reach. Across the region, most of this year’s grapes had already been harvested, crushed, and stored in tanks, the majority of which were not harmed in the fires.
There are many in Sonoma, Napa, Lake and Mendocino Counties who were not as fortunate as Russian River Valley. RRVW has responded by doubling-down on their commitments to the fire relief effort. “The RRVW Board of Directors has unanimously agreed to donate $10,000 to the Redwood Credit Union Sonoma County Fire Relief Fund to help the rebuilding of our great county,” said RRVW Board President and winemaker, Giovanni Balistreri.
The RRVW Board of Directors has elected to further support the rebuilding efforts by donating all proceeds from their Single Vineyard Night event in San Francisco on November 9th. Balistreri added that, “We have a long road ahead of us, and by banding together and keeping a positive outlook, together we will get ahead of this.”
Since the fires in Northern California have subsided, Carol Kozlowski – Every, RRVW member, vintner, food producer and longtime community member commented, “We invite you to come visit the Russian River Valley Appellation wineries, farms, local retailers, restaurants and spread the word that Sonoma County is still a food and wine lover’s paradise.” She added that, “While you are making your plans and booking tasting appointments with the wineries we hope you’ll open some Russian River Valley wine and raise your glass in honor of first responders, community and our beautiful, historic region of Sonoma County.”
Single Vineyard Night
Proceeds from RRVW’s Single Vineyard Night will be dedicated to raising funds for fire relief and rebuilding efforts in Sonoma County. Tickets are on sale now; $85 for general admission/$100 for VIP access. For tickets and more information, visit RRVW.org or the Russian River Valley Winegrowers Facebook page.
About the RRVW
The Russian River Valley Winegrowers (RRVW) is a community dedicated to promoting the Russian River Valley as the premier region for growing cool climate grapes while producing wines that showcase the diversity of our many neighborhoods. Our farmers and winemakers work in a manner that is environmentally sound, socially equitable and economically viable in order to continue our legacy as good stewards of the land and producers of distinctive wines of exceptional quality, authenticity and integrity. For more information on the Russian River Valley or becoming a member, please email info@rrvw.org or visit www.rrvw.org
