Announcement

Silacci Takes Top Leadership Position at ASEV

Opus One’s winemaker, Michael Silacci (right), officially took reign as president of the ASEV Board of Directors as of July 1, succeeding Past President Craig Rous (left) of Bear Creek Winery.

“Craig Rous provided outstanding leadership to guide a unique and diverse group of individuals. He was instrumental in many of the innovative new program concepts and ideas that the ASEV is introducing,” Silacci said. “He did a superb job as president, and I am lacing my boots tightly to follow in his footsteps.”

Silacci, who has spent the past 8 years at Opus One in Oakville, will lead the 12-member board as it works to enhance tradition and value to the membership through a continually evolving slate of programs, publications and special events. An ASEV member since 1984, Silacci was a member of the ASEV Board of Directors from 1993-1995 and chaired the Annual Meeting Program Committee held in Portland, Oregon last month.

In addition, two new directors have been elected to join this year’s board of directors: Thomas Collins, manager of the Research Department at Foster’s Wine Estates Americas, and Peter Cousins of the United States Department of Agriculture at Cornell University.

The position of first vice president is now filled by Christian Butzke of Purdue University. James Kennedy of Oregon State University, Corvallis, was elected as second vice president.

“We have an innovative board, made up of dedicated and focused members who work tirelessly toward the advancement of our industry,” Silacci said. “I’m thrilled to be working with them and look forward to our next year together.”