PULLMAN – The Wine-By-Cougars (WBC) wine club is releasing “Artist Expression 2007,” a celebration of a Cougar-connected wine adorned with the artwork from a member of each year’s graduating class. The first-ever “Artist Expression” release is the result of a collaboration among WBC, Woodward Canyon and Washington State University’s School of Fine Arts.
World-renowned winemaker and 1969 WSU alumnus Rick Small has been a valued supporter of WBC since its launch. “Artist Expression” features one of his wines with the label artwork of another talented Cougar, Annette Ticknor.
Ticknor is a communication major and fine art student, who said the inspiration for her artwork is “the idea of simplicity and earthy elegance that speaks to WSU’s land-grant institution roots and its impact on the state’s wine industry.” An idea Small and WBC embrace. In winemaking, Small said the magic comes from how the grapes are grown. His 2005 Woodward Canyon Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon reflects his artistic touch and the unique characteristics hand-nurtured grapes impart.
“Artist Expression” is available for purchase now and will ship April 23. Cougars and friends may order “Artist Expression” by calling Cassie Rothstrom at Wine-By-Cougars: 1-509-526-7700. This hand-crafted wine will sell for $44 and availability is limited to 50 cases. Limit two bottles per person/order.
“This is a series worth collecting,” said Jud Preece, from the WSU Alumni Association. “Also, it makes a special gift for 2007 graduating seniors to cellar and use to toast the success their degree from WSU will bring them.”
Limited edition reproductions of the label will also be available as a poster. To order the poster, call the WSUAA at 1-800-258-6978 or (509) 335-2586 or visit the Lewis Alumni Centre.
Since its inaugural release in May 2006, WBC has tripled the number of members expected to join after the first full year of operation. “WBC has created quite a buzz among Cougars, the Washington wine industry, and wine aficionados alike,” said Preece. WBC introduces members to award-winning, nationally recognized wines crafted by Cougar-connected wineries from
across the state of Washington.
WBC is the only alumni association wine club of its kind in the country – featuring different wines from different alumni wineries in each release. The Wine-By-Cougars wine club is another example of the many programs being launched by the WSU Alumni Association over the past few years.
Anyone can become a member of WBC and enjoy home delivery via UPS of premium award-winning varietals from Cougar-connected wineries. WSU Alumni Association members pay no fee to join. For more information, visit www.winebycougars.com.
