Carneros Wine Alliance Announces Fine-Tuning Of Organization

CARNEROS, CA (April 16, 2010): The Carneros Wine Alliance has announced it will undertake a fine-tuning of the organization to bring its strategic focus closer to the needs of its members. The initiative is expected to take place over the course of the next six to eight months.

“The CWA Board of Directors has spent considerable time talking with its members this past year,” said Scott Wallace, Vice President, Ascentia Wine Estates, and Chair, Board of Directors, Carneros Wine Alliance . “The economic conditions and the needs of our membership have changed. We feel it is important to take the steps necessary to ensure the success of the organization in the future.”

Wallace noted that it has been five years since the organization first undertook a major re-structuring which shifted the group from an internally-focused, research-based, grange-like organization to an externally-focused, full-service appellation business. During that period, after considerable member input, the group adopted a new strategic plan from which the Carneros Wine Alliance emerged. “The CWA is entering its second phase of development and we feel it is important to stay close to the members in an environment of economic uncertainty and change.”

The CWA’ s Board has decided to take several steps to prepare for this future. The Board has resolved to retain its core activities and events while also adjust its expenditures to meet anticipated revenues in a challenged economy.

As a result, Executive Director Phyllis Gillis will remain to assist the CWA in its Phase II assessment, but will step down from managing day-to-day administrative functions. Gillis also serves as Managing Director of the Carneros Land Stewardship Foundation and will remain in that position.

Formerly Chief Marketing Officer of Farella Braun + Martel LLP, Gillis was recruited in May, 2005 to lead the shift in the organization. “I committed to a three-year term of office when I was recruited five years ago,” said Gillis. “It has been an exhilarating and rewarding time. Most successful businesses, wine industry or otherwise, reassess periodically. It’s a healthy process and keeps an organization vital.”
The Carneros Wine Alliance is an association of vintners and growers in the Carneros winegrowing region spanning the southern portions of both Napa and Sonoma. A cool climate appellation, Carneros is known for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and cool climate Merlot.