Washington state’s largest wine producer is consolidating its southeast Washington operations as it focuses on strengthening the company’s long-term sustainability. 

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates announced in a letter to wine club members that it will close its Northstar winemaking facility and tasting room in Walla Walla on June 30, according to Northwest Wine Report.  

The company confirmed the closure to the Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business and that the label’s production will be shifted to Columbia Crest winery in Paterson. It will continue to be available at a recently opened tasting room in Woodinville and through wine club and online channels. 

“The premium quality and style of Northstar wines will remain consistent, with continued sourcing from top vineyards and AVAs across the Columbia Valley,” Ste. Michelle said in a statement. “The brand remains a very important part of our leading Pacific Northwest portfolio.” 

How many staff will be impacted by the closure was not provided, though the company confirmed that Northstar’s winemaker, David “Merf” Merfeld, will be departing for other opportunities. 

The consolidation of operations is the latest move by the Wyckoff family of Grandview to better position the wine producer after buying all of its brands, facilities and vineyards in December, making it the first Washington state-based owner of Ste. Michelle in 50 years. 

In May, David Richardson, a food and agriculture executive with four decades of experience, including time as a senior leader at Lamb Weston, was named the new CEO while Dan Heller, who has been with Ste. Michelle for 40 years, is taking on a new role as the winemaker’s chief commercial officer. 

At the same time, Court Wyckoff, CEO of Wyckoff Farms and Coventry Vale Winery, is assuming the position of executive chairman of Ste. Michelle’s board of directors to provide ongoing and enhanced collaboration with the winemaker’s senior leadership.