Ted Baseler Guest Speaker of the Leadership Luncheon at the WA Grape Growers Convention

Ted Baseler joined the company in 1984 after working on the Chateau Ste. Michelle account as a Vice President for Cole and Weber in Seattle.  Onver the years, Ted has risen through the ranks and became President and CEO in 2001.  Since then, Ted has turned around company profit growth by increasing quality, focusing on Washington vineyards, acquiring highly acclaimed small wineries, and expanding distribution worldwide.  the company has had record earnings and profits in seven of the eight years since Ted took the helm.  His leadership roles in the industry have included Chairman of the Washington Wine commission, Chairman of the Wine Market Council and Director of the Washington Wine Institute.  Wine Enthusiast magazine named Ted the “man of the Year” in 2009.  He also led efforts to create an enology and viticulture program at Washington State University, where he has served on the Board of Regents.  Ted’s previous employment includes working as an account executive for J. Walter Thompson in Chicago, where his emphasis was on packaged goods marketing.  Ted received a Bachelor’s degree from Washington State University and a master’s degree from Northwestern University.