Ever wonder what it might be like to be a CEO of an award-winning vineyard or to make a career in wine? Well, students in ICE's Culinary Management Diploma program and other guests were treated to that and more this past Thursday, when the ICE Culinary Entrepreneur Series hosted Ted Baseler, President, and CEO of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates.
During the talk, Baseler discussed how he lead Château Ste. Michelle wines into a multi-vineyard collection of award-winning wine estates with international partners. During his 25-year history with the company, Baseler grew Ste. Michelle into the leading producer of wine in the state of Washington and the largest producer of Riesling in the world.
He also relayed his “String of Pearls” philosophy of growth – allowing each wine property under their fold to maintain its individuality and set its own goals. In addition to the interesting and informative talk, participants were treated to a tasting of Ste. Michelle’s portfolio, including the award-winning “Eroica” Riesling and “Col Solare,” made with European collaboration, as well as the delicious Northstar Merlot, all produced in Washington. The sampling finished with “Artemis” from one of their most recent additions, the historic Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars in Napa.
Post contributed by Richard Vayda, Director of Wine Studies and Instructor (Culinary Management Diploma program) at The Institute of Culinary Education.To learn more about careers in wine, considertaking winee classes from ICE where you can receive a certificate of completion in the Wine Studies Program.
