For Immediate Release

Contact: John Enquist

Tel: 707.468.9886

Mendocino Winegrowers Alliance Presents

George Zeni Winegrower Sustainability Award to
Bill Crawford of McDowell Valley Vineyards

Ukiah, CA - The Mendocino Winegrowers Alliance has awarded the George Zeni Winegrower Sustainability Award to Vintner/Grower Bill Crawford of McDowell Valley Vineyards for his long time efforts in the production of premium quality Mendocino County grapes and wine.

Crawford will receive the award at the Seventh Annual Mendocino Winegrowers Alliance Cioppino Feed and Auction in Fort Bragg on February 25, 2006.

The award is presented each year by the MWA to recognize one of its grape grower or winery members for premium quality grape and wine production with a high regard for sustainability, community involvement and the promotion of Mendocino County as a world-class wine producing region.

Bill has been growing grapes and making wine in McDowell Valley, Mendocino County since 1970. Bill has served as President of the Mendocino Winegrowers Alliance for 5 years, from 1995 to 2000 and has been an active board member since 1992. Bill also sits on the board of directors for the Mendocino County Farm Bureau and the Mendocino County Alliance, Mendocino County Search & Rescue and is past president of the Rhone Rangers. "The commitment of time, energy and resources Bill has contributed has significantly left its mark on our industry", remarked Joel Clark, President of the Mendocino Winegrowers Alliance.

For information or tickets to the 7th Annual MWA Cioppino Feed & Auction contact the Mendocino Winegrowers Alliance at 707-468-9886