BC WINE INDUSTRY LEADERS HONOURED AT THE ANNUAL BC WINE INDUSTRY RECOGNITION AWARDS CEREMONY
For immediate release
03/13/2025
Penticton, British Columbia – Wine Growers British Columbia (WGBC) proudly honours outstanding individuals and organizations at the annual BC Wine Industry Recognition Awards presented at the BC Wine Industry Insight Conference in Penticton on March 12, 2025.
This year’s award recipients, celebrated for their remarkable leadership, innovation and exceptional hospitality, are recognized across three distinguished categories: the Ultimate BC Wine Ambassador Award, Master Marketer Award, and Leadership Excellence Award.
This year’s distinguished recipients are:
Ultimate BC Wine Ambassador Award – Robbie Hundertmark (Jason Parkes Customs/ Crown & Thieves)
The Ultimate BC Wine Ambassador Award recognizes an individual who is passionate about sharing their love of BC wine with their guests. They are seen by peers as a hospitality superstar who comes to work every day with a smile, takes pride in their work and positively impacts the people they come into contact with. The recipient of the 2025 Ultimate BC Wine Ambassador Award is Robbie Hundertmark, Crown & Thieves/Jason Parkes Customs.
“Robbie has spent over a decade inspiring and educating wine lovers with his signature blend of expertise, humour and warmth,” said Bram Bolwijn, Iconic Wineries of British Columbia and 2024 recipient of the same award. “Robbie’s commitment to being an ambassador of our industry is undeniable.”
Master Marketer Award – Town Hall Brands (Leeann Froese)
The Master Marketer Award recognizes an innovative individual or organization that thought outside the box to promote the Wines of BC. The 2025 Master Marketer is Leeann Froese, co-owner and founder of Town Hall Brands.
“Leeann is a powerhouse in branding and public relations, shaping the stories that define our industry. Through Town Hall Brands, she has elevated countless wineries and tourism organizations, bridging connections between media, trade, and government,” said Kimberley Barnes, Marketing Director, Wine Growers BC.
Leadership Excellence – Michael Bartier (Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery)
The Leadership Excellence Award recognizes an individual who has gone above and beyond to take a leadership role and build great relationships within the industry. This person positively contributes to the greater wine community in BC, making it a better place to work and live. The recipient of the 2025 Leadership Excellence Award is Michael Bartier, co-owner, winemaker, and general manager of Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery located in the south Okanagan Valley. “Michael is not only an award-winning winemaker but also a steadfast advocate for industry-wide growth and collaboration. Michael’s expertise and generosity have supported countless industry professionals in their development,” said Paul Sawler, Board Chair, Wine Growers BC.
From left to right: Michael Bartier (Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery), Leeann Froese (Town Hall Brands), Robbie Hundertmark (Crown & Thieves / Jason Parkes Customs)
“Choosing this year’s winners from such a talented pool of nominees was a challenging task,” said Laura Kittmer, Communications Director, WGBC, and Chair of the Awards Selection Committee. “Each of our recipients has made a lasting impact on the BC wine industry, and we are thrilled to celebrate their exceptional contributions today.”
The BC Wine Industry Recognition Awards, sponsored by ContainerWorld Group of Companies, are presented annually in acknowledgement of outstanding achievements and contributions to the BC wine industry. “Today’s awards recipients now stand with an exceptional group of individuals who embody excellence in BC’s wine industry. Their dedication, leadership, and passion elevate not only themselves and their closest peers but our entire industry,” said Sawler.
For more information on the Industry Recognition Awards visit WineBC.com >
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Please credit Wine Growers British Columbia (@WinesofBC)
