For Immediate Release
Rhonda Motil
MCVGA
831-375-9400

Monterey Vintners Honor Top Performing Members at Annual Awards Ceremony

David Dennigmann and First National Bank
Recognized for Contributions to Monterey’s Growing Wine Region

Monterey County, CA- January 18, 2005 - The Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association (MCVGA) is pleased to announce its recipients of the Vintner and Volunteer of the Year awards, both of which were given at the 2005 Annual Members' Luncheon at the Monterey Marriott. This sold-out event was attended by both General Members and Associate Members who are supportive of the burgeoning wine industry in Monterey County.

The Vintner and the Volunteer of the Year awards are voted on annually by the general membership. The Volunteer of the Year Award, given to a general or associate member chosen for his or her exceptional service in unconditionally and enthusiastically donating significant time and talent for the benefit of the association.

This year's winner, David Dennigmann of Pessagno Winery and Dennigmann Wine Group, was recognized for his efforts in promoting and helping optimize MCVGA marketing initiatives and providing key support to several of the organization's special events.

Mr. Dennigmann, a member of the MCVGA Marketing Committee, is Brand Manager of Pessagno Winery, which recently finalized purchase of its new River Road winery complex in the heart of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA; he is also president of Dennigmann Wine Group, a wine marketing and sales company with a portfolio of artisan winery clients.

"With increasing awards and sales, more and more world class wines are being recognized as being from Monterey County and regional AVAs such as the Santa Lucia Highlands," Mr. Dennigmann stated. "Our region is proving to be among the very best winegrowing areas in the world. Its growing reputation as a region to enjoy the best in wine, food, and lifestyle activities is a front that MCVGA is helping to lead. I am proud to be affiliated with the organization."

The Vintner Award, which recognizes the Associate Member who best demonstrates his or her commitment and support of the wine industry, was awarded to First National Bank. First National Bank has been an Associate Member of MCVGA for several years and has repeatedly been a sponsor for local wine events, as well as the paddle sponsor for the Monterey Wine Auction and Gala. Mark Scaroni accepted the award on behalf of First National Bank.

“First National Bank has consistently been a valuable partner for MCVGA,” commented Rhonda Motil, Executive Director of MCVGA. “ However, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the wonderful support that they have provided to the agriculture community as a whole, as well as to several of our other associate members. They are truly a role model for a business that gives back to the community, and for that, the wine industry is most appreciative.”

Additional information on General Membership and Associate Membership with MCVGA can be obtained by calling 831-375-9400 or by visiting online at www.montereywines.org.

About MCVGA

The Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association (MCVGA) brings together the talents and resources of members, partners and our community in order to promote and support our leadership in the art, the science and the business of wine. Founded in 1974, MCVGA is a non-profit organization representing over 75 vintners and growers in Monterey County. To find out additional information about the members of MCVGA please call 831-375-9400 or visit online at www.montereywines.org