Press Release: Willow Park Wines & Spirits Celebrates 28 Years in Business

     CALGARY, Mar. 7, 2022 — In 1994, founder, Wayne Henuset used the privatization of Alberta's liquor industry to create a wine business that balanced retail and wholesale elements with a desire to educate wine fans both near and far. From Monday, March 7 to Sunday, March 13, 2022, Willow Park Wines & Spirits (WPWS) is celebrating 28 years in business, marking nearly three decades of giving customers the opportunity to Taste, Learn and Enjoy wines, beers and spirits from all over the world.

“When it comes to strong leadership and motivation, we’ve really lucked out. Our team leaders have worked tirelessly to create an energetic environment that pushes our Trusted Experts to extraordinary levels year after year,” says public relations manager, Sarah Ross.

As president of WPWS, Peggy Perry has acted as the company's heartbeat and compass, steering the organization toward philanthropic partnerships and developing a unique events program that balances education with sheer enjoyment. Peggy's expansive resume includes hands-on learning in the fine French wine regions of Bordeaux and Champagne, as well as developing a television series on wine, beer and spirits in the 2000’s, which has aired on networks across Canada and the U.S. In 2020, following WPWS’ nomination for Canadian Retailer of the Year by American publication, Market Watch Magazine, Peggy was also named a Market Leader.

Vice president of product management Debbie Grove, has also been with WPWS since the beginning. Her passion for the wine industry, customers and her colleagues is unsurpassed and serves as a guiding light for a diverse team that is eager to see the company continue to grow and thrive.

Peter Smolarz, the director of fine wines and purchasing, is a wine and spirit expert in every sense of the world. Between formal education, knowledge gleaned through world travel and professional-level classes, Peter has cemented his status as someone who can connect with wine newbies and high-level sommeliers alike. Now 18 years into his role at WPWS, Peter is tasked with managing the Bordeaux Futures program, instructing the globally recognized Wine & Spirit Education (WSET) curriculum and teaching at many high-end events.

28 Years of Charitable Giving

As the WPWS retail and wholesale businesses have blossomed, so has the opportunity to give back. To date, Willow Park Wines & Spirits has raised over $5 million for local charities and organizations, including Te Soley Haiti School Project, Alberta Cancer Foundation, Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation, CUPS Calgary and many more.

Let the Celebration Begin

In honour of 28 amazing years, WPWS is holding a Sale-a-bration Sale from March 7 to 13. Perks include up to 50% off on a carefully curated selection of more than 150 premium brands of wine, beer and spirits, which are available online and in-store. Keep an eye out for the spring events calendar, too! The schedule is jam-packed with over 30 new and notable in-person tastings, giving wine, beer and spirits fans a chance to experience new flavours and fall in love with old favourites all over again. 

For more information, contact:

Sarah Ross
Public Relations & Social Media Manager
403-296-1640 ext. 247
sarahr@willowpark.net
www.willowparkwines.com