07/08/2026
Congratulations to our W**emaker, Irving Mendoza, on receiving the 2026 Walter J. Clore Scholarship from the Washington W**egrowers.
Since joining Badger Mountain & Powers W**ery in 2015, Irving has dedicated himself to mastering his craft, progressing from the barrel room to Assistant W**emaker and, in 2022, becoming our W**emaker. His commitment to continuous learning is evident as he pursues the W**ery Technology Certificate Program at Yakima Valley College while crafting the w**es you enjoy.
We're honored to have Irving leading our w**emaking program and are thrilled to see his passion and dedication recognized by the Washington w**e community. Join us in congratulating him on this well-deserved achievement! 🍷
On behalf of the Washington W**egrowers Board of Directors, congratulations to Irving Mendoza of Yakima Valley College on receiving this year's Walter J. Clore Scholarship.
Established in 1997 by the W**egrowers, the scholarship honors Dr. Walter J. Clore's pioneering contributions to Washington viticulture and enology and supports students pursuing w**e-related education.
Irving brings more than a decade of w**emaking experience, beginning his career in the barrel room at Badger Mountain & Powers W**ery in 2015. He advanced to Assistant W**emaker in 2021 and became W**emaker in 2022. Currently enrolled in the W**ery Technology Certificate Program at Yakima Valley College, Irving is continuing to expand his knowledge and expertise while contributing to the future of Washington's w**e industry.
Congratulations, Irving, and best wishes for your continued success!
Irving is one of 10 recipients of scholarships managed by the Washington W**e Industry Foundation. W**egrowers also extends congratulations to each of them! Since 2002, over half a million dollars has been awarded to over 250 Washington students with $40,000 in scholarships awarded this year.
Click here to see the full list of award recipients and to learn more about the scholarships: https://washingtonw**efoundation.org/2026-scholarship-recipients/