Renowned Rioja producer Bodegas Valdemar has opened a winery in Washington State’s prime Walla Walla region.
The new winery, Valdemar Estates, is planning to begin exporting to the UK by autumn 2020
‘We were looking for a unique region to develop a new project and I knew about Washington State’s potential due to my studies in Seattle,’ said Valdemar owner Jesus Martinez Bujanda Mora. ‘I brought my family here and we all fell in love with Washington State. This is a unique place with amazing vineyards and wines,' he continued, 'but also with an amazing community that has welcomed us with open arms since day one. We are truly grateful and honoured to be part of the next chapter of Washington State wine.’
Valdemar's new venture follows a series of international investments that have 'played a great role of our story', said Washington State Wine president Steve Warner.
Previous international investments notably include Red Mountain AVA’s Col Solare winery, established in 2007 by renowned Tuscan family Antinori in partnership with Washington’s leading name Chateau St Michelle.
‘We’re thrilled to welcome Valdemar to Washington,’ said Warner. ‘[We] anticipate their arrival will attract even more national and international interest in the years ahead.’