FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HEALDSBURG, Calif. – APRIL 1, 2023 – In 1983, Dry Creek Vineyard founder David S. Stare was the pioneer behind Dry Creek Valley’s American Viticultural Area (AVA) status. It was a valiant effort among many notable ‘firsts’ in the industry by the family winery, paving the way for a renaissance of winemaking and viticulture in its home appellation.
Forty years later, Dry Creek Vineyard is faced with another change, perhaps an even more dire one — a change of heart. The recent heavy rainfall across northern Sonoma County provided much-needed moisture after a long drought. However, past the damp tasting tables and muddy lawns is a watery-eyed conviction that it may very well be time to reconsider the region’s world-famous name.
Stare’s daughter, Kim Stare Wallace, says that she has been contemplating this conundrum for over two months, citing confusion from new visitors about the name of the appellation. Stare Wallace is currently the President of Dry Creek Vineyard and continues to lead with a “no compromises” philosophy, producing appellation-focused, varietal-defining wines. With overflowing desire to make change — and armed by her rainboots and poncho — she has been active in gathering signatures for a petition, now with over 1,972 names in support.
“No offense to my dad, but Mother Nature always plays her role in our future, so it’s important that we give back and reflect on the name of our home appellation,” said President Kim Stare Wallace. “We’re ready to fully embrace our sailing heritage and swim with the tide, metaphorically and literally.”
When asked whether Dry Creek Vineyard would be renamed to Soggy Creek Vineyard, she gave a small smile, just visible underneath her poncho hood. “I wouldn’t say that it’s improbable. Times change, and with it, names. It could very well be a new chapter for our family winery… but hey, at least our logo is still a great match!”
David Stare could not be reached for comment. We suspect he’s ignoring our calls for support.
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Established in 1972 by David S. Stare, Dry Creek Vineyard is Dry Creek Valley’s flagship winery located in the heart of Sonoma County, California. This premier, family-owned winery is celebrating 50 years of winemaking and is led by the second generation. Dave’s daughter, Kim Stare Wallace, serves as President overseeing a successful family winemaking and grape growing business that includes 185 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards. Named a Top 100 Winery by Wine & Spirits Magazine and a Top 10 Tasting Room by USA TODAY, the winery is also 100% Certified Sustainable. Dry Creek Vineyard proudly produces delicious Dry Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Meritage blends as well as a portfolio of single vineyard selections. To learn more, visit www.drycreekvineyard.com. Connect with Dry Creek Vineyard on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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Contact:
Jenny Phan
Marketing & Communications Manager
JennyP@drycreekvineyard.com
(707) 433-1000 ext. 137