Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter visit Garnier Vineyards

GARNIER FOUNDER welcomes former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, seated at right, to the scenic vineyard east of Mosier. The couple visited the Gorge on June 29.

Garnier Vineyards, which lies just east of Mosier on the old scenic Columbia River Highway (U.S. Highway 30), hosted former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, alongside other individuals on June 29. The outing was one of many the 39th President and 2002 Nobel Peace Prize winner made during his recent visit to the Columbia River Gorge, in conjunction with the annual Carter Center’s Donor and Retreat Weekend being held this year in Stevenson.

Tom Garnier, the owner of the vineyard, said he and his staff were honored to host a man of such service and extensive leadership in humanitarian efforts worldwide. During the president’s visit, multiple wines were tasted — a compliment to the charcuterie and bowls of cherries freshly picked from the onsite orchard. The president’s favorite wine was the newest release from Garnier Vineyards, the 2016 Primitivo, while Rosalynn Carter enjoyed the 2017 Sauvignon Blanc.