After Successful Initial Launch, Veteran-Dedicated Wine Increases Production
Napa, CA, August 15, 2016 —Following a noteworthy initial launch in March 2016, Purple Heart Wines (purpleheartwines.com/), 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.
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. Commenting on the differences between the 2014 and 2013 vintages, Grega notes: “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.” 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. Paul Englert, Vice President of Marketing at C. Mondavi & Family, comments on the growth of the brand: “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.”
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.
