Santa Lucia Highlands' Winegrowers Name "Volunteer Of The Year"

MONTEREY COUNTY, Calif., May 26, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- The Santa Lucia Highlands Wine Artisans, an alliance of the appellation's winegrowers and wineries, announced a first-ever "Volunteer of the Year" recognition at their annual Gala.  Stefani Chaney, Hospitality Director at Scheid Vineyards, received the inaugural "Josh Lee Award."

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In bestowing the award in a brief ceremony prior to the start of the Gala, SLH Wine Artisans' Board President Gary Franscioni cited Ms. Chaney's efforts in promoting the Santa Lucia Highlands. "She has generously provided her time and knowledge. She has brought in local industry and restaurant partners to add significant value to our promotional outreaches.  She has helped to make our public and trade events successful, reflecting the association's values and the quality of our wines. Stefani is one of our group's most important ambassadors." 

The Josh Lee Volunteer-of-the-Year Award was created to honor the memory of Mr. Lee's positive attitude and hardworking support of SLH Wine Artisans' events. It will be given annually to an individual who gives freely of their own time and expertise to further the goals of the SLH association.

The Santa Lucia Highlands is one of the crown jewels of California viticulture, growing and producing some of the state's best cool climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah. The appellation encompasses more than 6,000 acres of prime vineyards, planted on the elevated terraces of the Santa Lucia mountain range in close proximity to nearby Monterey Bay. The region's unique winegrowing character was recognized with official A.V.A. status in 1991.  

Formed in 2005, the Santa Lucia Highlands Wine Artisans is a non-profit association of vineyards and wineries that grow grapes in the S.L.H. or use the appellation's fruit to craft their vintage releases. The group's online home is SantaLuciaHighlands.com    

Contact: Dave Muret Email (408) 205-1516

SOURCE Santa Lucia Highlands Wine Artisans