Lower Valley wine sales will benefit FFAs

PROSSER -- FFA, the student agricultural and leadership organization, is getting a little help from a few of its winemaking veterans.

The owners and operators of five Lower Valley wineries, all former FFA members at Grandview and Prosser high schools, have released a series of bottles that will raise money for future FFA students.

Starting this weekend, Willow Crest Wine Estates, McKinley Springs Winery, Pontin del Roza Winery, Mercer Wine Estates and Alexandria Nicole Cellars will take turns each year releasing limited editions of red wine blends under the title Seva Agriculture Heritage Series.

Cost for one bottle is $30; cost to reserve a five-year numbered series is $100.

Proceeds go to the Washington FFA Foundation, which contributes to scholarships, state leadership activities and career development for high school students.

Willow Crest in Prosser is up first and will host a release party 3-6 p.m. Saturday at its tasting room, 590 Merlot Drive. The party also will feature an open house for Rick Adams, who is retiring after 35 years teaching agriculture classes at Prosser High School.

For more information, visit the www.washffafoundation.org or call Stewart Padelford, executive director of the foundation, at 509-781-1461.