New Exposure Through Native Roots: Napa Vintner Makes Inroads with 2010 Swiss President

Napa Valley, CA, August 03, 2009 --(PR.com)-- In an economic climate that has business owners scrambling to reach new markets, Peter K. Huwiler of Napa Station wines has tapped his roots – and ingenuity - to make inroads with the Swiss Minister for Economic Affairs, Doris Leuthard. Leuthard will become Switzerland’s President in 2010.

Leuthard visited the U.S. in mid-July to deepen her personal contacts with President Barack Obama’s new administration and to review opportunities in California’s energy and environmental industries. Paying homage to the Swiss heritage he left 40 years ago when he moved to the U.S., Huwiler harnessed his own California energy to ensure his fledgling wine brand was the exclusive vintage at a gala dinner held in Leuthard’s honor. The dinner was hosted by the Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce at the Westin St. Francis.

“These are excellent wines,” said Leuthard of the Napa Station selection. “It’s great to see Swiss ex-pats involved in Napa Valley wine.” Including Huwiler, there are six Swiss vintners in the Napa Valley alone.

July marked the winery’s first anniversary. While distribution has been established in 14 states plus Japan, Taiwan and Switzerland, Huwiler is working non-stop to open new markets.

“This has probably been the toughest time to launch a wine brand in the last twenty years,” says Huwiler, speaking of the broad global downturn, with 40 years of wine industry experience. “You have come up with innovative ways to expand exposure, and take the long view.”

Leuthard is responsible for the Doha Round negotiations of the World Trade Organization. She has headed Switzerland’s Economic Ministry since 2006.

Photos available upon request.

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