BARNARD GRIFFIN WINERY STATE OF THE
WASHINGTON WINE CRUSH REPORT

BARNARD GRIFFIN CO-FOUNDER ROB GRIFFIN OFFERS 2008 "STATE OF THE CRUSH" REPORT

RICHLAND, WA: Rob Griffin, a Washington state wine pioneer with over 30 years experience and co-founder of Barnard Griffin Wines says in his annual "State of The Crush" Report that grape quality is very good overall, with Merlot and Syrah grapes "exceptional" and that "the early reds are really flavorful."

"White grapes are "Washington Wonderful" again and this year?s harvest looks very good overall with 2008 looking like a modest vintage year for overall production volume," Griffin said.

The 2008 CRUSH is underway and going well. "So far, so good," says Griffin, "This year is reminding me of much of the 1980's where things really didn't get going until late September and October. Quality seems to be really good. There?s lots of intensity - with really big color and flavor in the Reds with the right amount of acidity. Cabernet has just started harvest and the fruit looks exceptional with great flavors and balanced sugars.?

"Sugars aren't building too high as in past years, so we'll be closer to more normal levels of alcohol," he said.

"As far as other varietal production is concerned, it looks dicey for any super late harvest varietals. We're working on our Syrah Port wine now."

"The last few years, from 1995 on, have trended warmer," Griffin said, but 2008 is "one of the cooler years we've seen lately; a return to traditional ?cool climate? Washington winemaking."

Should you visit Barnard Griffin winery at this time to catch the crush, the general admission, refundable tasting fee is $5. As always, Barnard Griffin Wine Club members have complimentary access to tastings. Barnard Griffin Wine Club Membership indeed has its privileges!

Don't miss an annual Washington state tradition -- the beauty of the Fall in the Columbia Valley vineyards and great Barnard Griffin wines. Barnard Griffin Winery: 878 Tulip Lane, Richland, WA 99352. (509)-627-0266

About Barnard Griffin

Barnard Griffin is a private, family-owned winery located in Richland, Wash. Co-owners Rob Griffin and Deborah Barnard have been making award-winning wine under the Barnard Griffin label since 1983, and Rob Griffin has been making wine in Washington State since 1977. Barnard Griffin is currently producing more than 70,000 cases of wine per year including Barbera, Cabernet-Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Ciel du Cheval Merlot, Fume Blanc, Late Harvest Muscat Canelli, Malbec, Merlot, Orange Muscat, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Rose, Rose of Sangiovese, Semillon, Syrah, Syrah Port, Viognier, Zinfandel and a variety of blends.

Barnard Griffin currently produces two labels, both available at retail as well as via the wine clubs and online wine stores. The limited production Reserve Label wines are crafted in very limited quantities from the best vineyard lots in the region, using European, French and American oak. Barnard Griffin's signature Tulip Label wine, one of Washington's most recognized wines, is available in restaurants and stores across the country.

Barnard Griffin selects its grapes from regions throughout Washington?s Columbia Valley including Wahluke Slope, Horse Heaven, Yakima Valley, Red Mountain, and other AVA's. Barnard Griffin works with small family growers and favors long term contracts with dedicated acreage for vineyard continuity and quality. The winery and tasting room are located at 878 Tulip Lane in Richland, Wash. For more information, please visit www.BarnardGriffin.com or call (509) 627-0266.

© 2008, Barnard Griffin Winery, Richland, WA 99352