Purple Heart Wines Releases 2014 Vintage
By Chilled Magazine
After Successful Initial Launch, Veteran-Dedicated Wine Increases Production.
Following a noteworthy initial launch in March, 2016, Purple Heart Wines is pleased to announce the release of their second vintage, their 2014 Purple Heart Red ($19.99). This wine releases to the public on September 1st, with 15,000 cases, double the production of the previous vintage. A label produced under C. Mondavi & Family, Purple Heart Wines pays tribute to American military veterans through support of the Purple Heart Foundation, an organization dedicated to serving the unmet needs of military men, women and families. Purple Heart Wines will officially unveil the 2014 vintage at the 2016 Purple Heart Foundation Gala in Norfolk, Virginia on August 13th. For the first time, the Gala will be open to the public.
2014 Purple Heart Red
The 2014 vintage of Purple Heart Red introduces the collaborative efforts of Napa winemaker and Iraq War veteran David Grega, who brings a passion for wine and his fellow veterans. Grega and Vietnam veteran winemaker Ray Coursen worked together on the new vintage to produce a bold American red wine, stylistically ripe with soft tannins and a plush mouthfeel.
Winemaker, and Iraq War Veteran Ray Coursen
“2013 was more structured, but the 2014 is a bit fuller and more accessible because of the conditions of the vintage. We tried to keep a similar style of wine that is drinkable, but still has complexity.”
– David Grega, commenting on the differences between the 2014 and 2013 vintages
Ray Coursen Vietnam Era
The 2014 sees the addition of Petite Sirah and additional Cabernet Sauvignon to the Merlot-driven, Bordeaux-inspired blend.
In just six months, Purple Heart Wines has enjoyed tremendous success, with national placements, and a sold-out 2013 vintage.
“We are thrilled with the success of Purple Heart Wines thus far, and hope to continue expanding the project. We’re honored that David Grega has joined the winemaking team and remain focused on increasing awareness for the Purple Heart Foundation and the needs of veterans.”
– Paul Englert, Vice President of Marketing at C. Mondavi & Family, commenting on the growth of the brand
In addition to increased production, Purple Heart Wines has amplified exposure and awareness for its beneficiary, the Purple Heart Foundation, with participation in annual fundraising events like the August Gala, heightened visibility for ‘how to donate’ information on promotional materials and their website, and joint media interviews. Purple Heart Wines will donate up to $50,000 annually to the Purple Heart Foundation, to be used at their discretion to provide much needed support for myriad veterans’ needs.
Purple Heart is a Napa Valley red wine created to honor the bravery and commitment of America’s military heroes. It is an uncompromising wine crafted by highly accomplished military veteran winemakers under the stewardship of the Peter Mondavi Sr. Family, whose patriarch is a proud veteran of World War II. The Purple Heart is a congressional military decoration, awarded to members of the armed forces of the U.S. who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy. No military award better symbolizes the bravery, determination and selflessness of the military men and women serving our country. It is this noble medal that inspired the creation of Purple Heart Wines. In partnership with the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the winery makes an annual financial contribution to the Purple Heart Foundation to help them achieve their mission.
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