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The Inn at Abeja and vineyards were sold to a group of investors with local ties on April 27, 2018. The new ownership, The Inn at Abeja Vineyards, LLC, includes Columbia Hospitality CEO and founder John Oppenheimer, who is the majority owner, Arnie Prentice of USI Kibble & Prentice, and Ken and Ginger Harrison, who founded Abeja in 2000. In a simultaneous transaction, Ken and Ginger Harrison welcomed new partners to the continued operations of the Abeja winery business, including Arnie Prentice. Veteran winemakers Daniel Wamplfer and Amy Alvarez-Wamplfer will continue to lead winemaking operations at Abeja, and the Harrisons will be actively involved in oversight of the winery and tasting room. The mergers and acquisitions firm METIS served as the exclusive advisor in both transactions. “The Inn at Abeja and vineyards are the ideal additions to our expanding collection of unique properties,” said John Oppenheimer. “We look forward to building on the phenomenal experience Ken and Ginger have created, including hosting more events and weddings on this stunning property, and continuing to work with the onsite team to provide exceptional guest experiences at this local gem.” Located seven miles east of downtown Walla Walla, Abeja is set in the rolling foothills of the Blue Mountains. A century-old farmstead, the original farm buildings have been restored with an emphasis on craftsmanship and longevity. The property has a composition of outbuildings that includes unique cottages and suites, each decorated with its own mix of elegant antiques and rustic country curio. In addition to the onsite winery and tasting room, the property also includes outdoor space for the summer months, carefully tended estate vineyards, and gardens. All onsite team members will be retained, including longtime innkeeper Mary Besbris. “From the start, our vision has always been to preserve, protect and share the peaceful, calming beauty of this incredible property through world-class hospitality,” said Ken Harrison. “John shares our unique vision, and Columbia Hospitality’s standards of excellence are in keeping with our commitment to providing guests with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the tranquil allure of this pristine setting where exceptional wines are grown.” “As longtime patrons of Abeja we couldn’t be more excited to become partners on this incredible property,” said Arnie Prentice. “We’ve always enjoyed drinking their award-winning wines and staying as guests at The Inn, and are proud to work with Columbia and the Harrisons to continue the legacy of this extraordinary estate.” Walla Walla has become one of the finest wine regions in the nation, with over 120 wineries and 2,800 acres of grapes. The first wines of Abeja were released in 2003 and continue to receive high acclaim in each of their categories. About
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