Here are a few recent news items about goings on in the Walla Walla Valley.

Barrel Full of Money Raises $55,000 for the Food Bank

On December 12th, Barrel Full of Money held its annual reception and auction to benefit the Blue Mountain Action Council which operates a Food Bank and provides other services for the needy in the Walla Walla Valley Community. Over 55 thousand dollars was raised, which will buy a lot of meals for those who need them. Many wineries participated by donating wines, mostly magnums, for the silent auction. And other businesses donated travel and other packages for the live auction. Thanks to all who helped this event, the most successful one yet.

Marcus Rafanelli Named L'Ecole No. 41 Winemaker

In December, it was announced that Marcus Rafanelli, a lead instructor at the Walla Walla Community College Institute for Enology and Viticulture would become L'Ecole No. 41's winemaker. Marcus is a 2006 graduate of Boise State College with a degree in biology. He enrolled in the Walla Walla Community College Institute for Enology and Viticulture and worked the 2007 crush at L'Ecole. Then five years at the William Church winery in Woodinville where I first met Marcus. After a year in Australia, he returned to Walla Walla as an instructor at Community College. The faculty is happy to see him move on to L'Ecole. 

Rockgarden Vineyard Acquired by Force Majeure

It was announced this week that Rockgarden Vineyard in the Rocks of Milton-Freewater was purchased from the Buty Winery. This increases the presence of Force Majeure, which previously sourced most of its wines from Red Mountain, in the Walla Walla Valley, in addition to the newly constructed winery in The Rocks and the Stellar Vineyard.

Todd Alexander Now Winemaker at The Walls

Another development related to Force Majeure is Todd Alexander's taking over the winemaking at The Walls Winery. He is also winemaker at Force Majeure and his wife, Carrie is now marketing director for both wineries. Former Walls winemaker, Ali Mayfield has departed to start her own winery.