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Mercer Estates, a Family-Owned Washington State Winery,
Launches in Washington and New York

Partners Bud Mercer and Mike Hogue Join Winemaker David Forsyth
for V.I.P. Media Events in Seattle and Manhattan

New York, NY, March 5, 2008 - Mercer Estates, a new family-owned winery based in Prosser, Washington, celebrated their U.S. launch at private luncheons at Anthony’s Restaurant in Seattle on February 19 and at Blue Hill Restaurant in Manhattan on March 4. The events brought together partners Bud Mercer and Mike Hogue, winemaker David Forsyth, and over fifty trade and media for inaugural tastings of Mercer Estates wines.

The Mercer and Hogue families share a winemaking legacy in Columbia Valley that bridges generations of excellence in Washington State agriculture. Committed to creating outstanding wines that exceed expectations, Mercer Estates builds upon Bud Mercer and Mike Hogue’s tradition in the Columbia Valley, and closely involves their children, Barbara and Ron Harle of Hogue Ranches, and Rob Mercer of Mercer Canyons.

Winemaker David Forsyth, formerly of The Hogue Cellars, brings over twenty-five years of experience to the venture, and is in charge of winemaking efforts on behalf of the families. National Sales & Marketing Director Kyle Cook has also worked in the wine and hospitality industry for more than twenty-five years. Based in New Jersey, Cook manages all account and wholesaler partnerships on behalf of Mercer Estates.

Presently, Mercer Estates offers six wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, sourced from three AVAs: Horse Heaven Hills, Yakima Valley and Columbia Valley. In the coming vintages Mercer Estates wines will be estate-grown, bottled and produced.

Mercer Estates will be opening a tasting room adjacent to the winery in Prosser, Washington this fall. Consumers, trade and media contacts are encouraged to visit the website at www.mercerwine.com for updates from the winery.

For further information about Mercer Estates and to request samples please contact HG Marketing, (718) 403-0097 or email info@hgmarketing.net.