A wildfire erupted near the California tourist town of Calistoga on Thursday, prompting the evacuation of nearby wineries and some rural residences. https://t.co/nDVDA4dQvG ...

Core Insights - Willamette Valley Vineyards is offering a Preferred Stock Offering to wine enthusiasts, allowing them to purchase shares and become part of the winery's ownership family [1][2][4] Company Overview - Founded in 1983, Willamette Valley Vineyards is recognized as one of Oregon's leading wineries, particularly known for its Pinot Noir and commitment to sustainability [8][10] - The winery operates under a community-funded business model, being one of the few community-owned, publicly traded wineries in the nation [2][8] Investment Opportunity - The introductory price for shares is set at $3.35, with an annual dividend of 6.5% or wine credit with a 15% bonus for early applications [4][5] - The minimum investment is 150 shares ($502.50), while the maximum is 5,000 shares ($16,750) [4] - Share prices will increase to $3.45 on August 1, 2025, and to $3.95 on November 1, 2025, unless sold out earlier [5] Shareholder Benefits - Shareholders receive exclusive benefits, including an annual dividend, discounts on wine releases, and access to special opportunities [3][9] - The winery emphasizes a loyalty-driven approach, aiming to create a community of wine enthusiasts who support the brand [4][6] Growth and Community Impact - The Preferred Stock Offering aims to support the winery's expansion, including its vineyards, tasting rooms, and production facilities [6] - Willamette Valley Vineyards has expanded to include nine tasting rooms across Oregon, Washington, and California, facilitated by stock ownership [10]

Core Insights - Willamette Valley Vineyards has appointed Mike Osborn as the new CEO, succeeding founder Jim Bernau, who will remain as President and Chairperson as part of a long-term succession plan [1][2][5] - The leadership change is aimed at accelerating the company's growth and enhancing its market presence, particularly in the evolving wine market [2][5] Company Overview - Willamette Valley Vineyards was founded in 1983 by Jim Bernau, who has built it into a respected winery known for its commitment to community ownership and environmental stewardship [2][5] - The winery has been recognized for its high-quality Pinot Noir and has received accolades such as "One of America's Great Pinot Noir Producers" from Wine Enthusiast Magazine [5] - The company operates under a unique shareholder model, with thousands of wine enthusiasts as co-owners, and has expanded to include 10 tasting rooms across Oregon, Washington, and California [4][5] Leadership Background - Mike Osborn, the new CEO, is known for founding Wine.com and has extensive experience in wine retail, having built it into the leading online wine retailer in the U.S. over the past 27 years [3] - Osborn's leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the winery, focusing on enhancing its national and global presence while maintaining its core values of integrity, community, and quality [4][5]