Eve's Wine 101

Call for Entries – BRIT®/FIVS International Sustainable Winegrowing Competition

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FORTH WORTH, Texas (PRWEB) – Come join the competition! The Botanical Research Institute of Texas and FIVS are pleased to announce the start of their 2020 sustainable winegrowing competition. Competition applications can be downloaded from BRIT’s web site at http://www.brit.org/wineaward and from the FIVS website http://www.fivs.org. The submission deadline for applications is September 30, 2019.

This is the first BRIT/FIVS co-branded and co-managed competition since the event began in 2010. The new partnership engages FIVS’s global membership of regional wine associations, wine producers and distributors to support and promote the competition.

The award attracts progressive and passionate wine organizations from around the world that are taking a leading role in “ground to glass” sustainable programs. The competition is based on the continuous improvement of the three tenets of sustainability – environment, economic, and social – and wine flavor.

The competition application consists of 20 high-level self-assessment questions in which applicants describe their organization’s conservation efforts in the vineyard and in operations. Examples include how waste is avoided, how it is reclaimed, and how the winery extends conservation efforts to its customers. Practices established to maintain environmentally sound, socially responsible, and economically feasible winemaking principles are detailed. Two bottles of wine must also be provided for a tasting by the judging committee. The competition has an entry fee of $50 USD.

International entrants may use their US distributors to forward their wine samples to BRIT or may use BRIT’s consignee, La Cigale Wines of Fort Worth, Texas, to clear shipments and provide COLA Waivers. If wishing to use La Cigale Wines, please contact Edward Proctor, La Cigale Wines, at (817) 923-6747 or email, ed@lacigalewines.com before shipping.

Previous platinum award recipients include: Casa Ferreirinha, 2019, Alexander Valley Vineyards (2018), Yealands Family Wines, (2017), Buzet (2016), LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyards (2014), Yalumba (2013), Trefethen Family Vineyards (2012), Parducci Wine Cellars (2011), and HALL Wines (2010).

The competition begins May 1, 2019 with a submission deadline of September 30, 2019. Winners will be announced in November. Platinum, gold, silver, and bronze-level medals are awarded to top-placing entries.

The competition’s overall winner will be presented with BRIT/FIVS International Sustainable Winegrowing glass sculpture in Fort Worth in January 2020, during BRIT’s Vine to Table award presentation and dinner.

Experiencing the Universal Whisky Experience 2019

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In the three years we’ve been lucky enough to attend the Universal Whisky Experience, aka the Nth, I’d have to say it just keeps getting better and better. This year we covered less ground (husband and I split the room – at the Wynn in Las Vegas – in two) and still only tasted maybe a quarter of what was being poured. And even though we each had two tickets for Super Pours, the brand ambassadors offered us everything they had – or it at least seemed that way! (If you just want a synopsis you can go here for photos alone.)

Last time I can share this banner…with yours truly on the top right next to The Nose!

This year I spent my first hour giving some attention to a few Bourbon tables; though I usually make a beeline for the oldest single malts in the room, I mixed it up this time. It might be because there was a large table set up with pre-measured pours, pens and tasting notes drawing my attention to the back of the main hall.

The table I’m referring to was set up Maker’s Mark Bourbon. The tasting experience that Maker’s Mark “Diplomat” Phil Olson talked me through was amazing. I learned about the different oak expressions, and the aromas and flavors each had. I noted that I liked the Seared French Cuvee, Maker’s Mark 46 Cask Strength (46 is the name of the particular wood), Roasted French Mocha and Toasted French Spice – this final one was my favorite. All four used French oak. I also noted that as my palate “warmed” so did my preferences. (Phil had me go back and revisit a couple.) I could’ve spent the entire evening there, and never made it to his finale where you are meant to blend your favorites, then get a few pals to agree with your choice = your own 15k barrel!

Moving on, though it was hard, I was in the mood for Bourbon and quickly found a Las Vegas based distiller, Smoke Wagon Bourbon. I enjoyed all three bottles they poured, and could see why they had won several gold and double gold medals at the San Francisco Wine and Spirits Competition.

Alpine Distilling, located in Park City, Utah, was a surprise for me. The botanicals in their “Summit Gin” slayed me. Now I just have to figure out how to get it from Utah here in So Cal! Also of note for me was their “Spur” Whiskey.

Then I got very much side-tracked by That Boutique-Y Whisky Company. I tasted everything in their line-up. Completely blown away with whiskeys from Japan, So. Africa and England. I think there were a dozen I tried, and a few in the back I got my hands on too. If you ever have an opportunity to taste this whisky brand don’t miss it.

The Scotch Whisky Syndicate 58/6 was a new thrill for me to taste, according to their Facebook page it is “an award-winning 12 Year Old specialist Blended Scotch Whisky, finished in Sherry butts for a distinctly richer fruity character.”

Glenfiddich had 12, 14 and 15 year olds, but I went straight to the 21 year old – as I had visited the distillery in Scotland and had done more than my fair share there. (If you ever get to Scotland don’t skip Glenfiddich – very generous pours. And while you’re at it reserve your kilted driver, aka tour operator, via Rabbie’s.)

I definitely had to stop at the Dewars’s blended Scotch whisky table, as Brand Ambassador Georgie Bell had made me a fan at a past Universal Whisky Experience event where we tasted through all of the single malts that go into Dewar’s. This year I sampled 21, 27 and 32 year olds, all “double double aged for ultimate smoothness.”

Had to taste from Westward American Single Malt Whiskey…when whisky pal and leader of the So Cal Whiskey Club Ries Michael manned the booth. 

Finally, I’d like to give a special shout out and thanks to founder Mahesh Patel and organizer Mit Patel, can’t imagine anyone else pulling anything like this off but the Patels and their team.

More Brands Seen at the Show (keep in mind that each of these brands had several pours.)

Macallan

Old Pulteney

John Craggie

Glencairn Crystal (Great nosing glass!)

The Dalmore

Highland Park and Glenrothes

Johnnie Walker

Tomatin

Total Wine

Benromach

Gordon and MacPhail

Facundo Rum

John Dewar Malts

Hardy

Borderies Cognac

Suntory Whiskey

Whistle Pig

Sazerac Rye

Glenfarclas

Dictator

Royal Salute

The Glenlivet

Aberlour

Loch Lomond

The Balvenie

And even though I was lucky enough to be featured in the 2019 Facebook banner ad and don’t expect the honor again, I will be stalking the website and Facebook pages listed below to see if the event photographers caught me “in the act” of having the time of our lives. See you in 2020!

https://universalwhiskyexperience.com/

https://www.facebook.com/universalwhisky/

https://www.instagram.com/universalwhisky/

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 15k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

WINERIES OF SANTA CLARA VALLEY MEDAL RECOGNITION

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MORGAN HILL —The Wineries of Santa Clara Valley are ramping up to compete in multiple competitions after their best year yet.

Santa Clara wineries were recognized for their collection of quality wines in 2018, participating in the SF Chronicle Wine Competition, Orange County’s Commercial Wine Competition, the California State Fair, Tasters Guild, Beverage Tasting Institute, the Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition, the Monterey International Wine Competition, the Sunset International Wine Competition and Rose Today’s competition.

The valley walked away from 2018 with more awards to add to its repertoire. The highlights for the year included Alara Cellars, who took home Best of Show, Best White Wine, Best of Class and a Double Gold for their 2017 Grenache Blanc. Sarah’s Vineyard received Top Pinot of 2018 by Wine Spectacular for its Pinot Noir.

Collectively, the wineries racked up 12 Double Gold Medals, 33 Gold Medals, 57 Silver Medals and 44 Bronze Medals.

As for Wine Enthusiast ratings, there were more than 25 entries that scored over 90 points and two entries that scored 95 points or more.

“All 32 wineries, big or small, have proven to other wine regions statewide and internationally that the Santa Clara Valley is one to watch. We saw 2018 finish strong, which sets the bar high for 2019 and with the medals announced for the recent SF Chronicle Wine Competition, 2019 is starting off right.” says Stacy Giannini, Director of Marketing for the Wineries of Santa Clara Valley. “The wineries took home 3 Double Gold Medals, 10 Gold Medals, 47 Silver Medals and 14 Bronze Medals.”

The Wineries of Santa Clara Valley is an association representing member wineries that grow and produce wines in one of the oldest wine producing regions of California.

With the first plantings at the Santa Clara Mission in 1798, the region of Santa Clara Valley represents one of the oldest growing traditions in the country. The Santa Clara Valley is now home to over three dozen wineries, of every size and shape, from long-established family operations to relatively small newcomers. On March 28, 1989, the Santa Clara Valley received AVA status; prior to this the region’s wines were typically labeled ‘Central Coast’ or ‘Santa Clara County’.

Casa Ferreirinha Wins Top Honors

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FORT WORTH, Texas (PRWEB) – The Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT®) is pleased to announce Casa Ferreirinha, a Portuguese reference brand in Douro Wines, as its platinum medal winner in BRIT’s 2019 International Award of Excellence in Sustainable Winegrowing competition. Casa Ferreirinha topped the field this year based on the winery’s ongoing sustainable programs that address both the three key factors of sustainability – environmental, economic, and social aspects — as well as superior wine taste. Five additional wineries – two from the U.S., two from Italy, and one from Portugal, also won awards based on their strong sustainable programs.

Casa Ferreirinha’s current sustainability accomplishments include: vineyard certification by the International Organization of Biological Control (IOBC) Integrated Production (IP) standards; growing floristic biodiversity as a means of promoting natural enemies of grapevine pests like the grape moth; preservation of indigenous grapevine varieties like the Touriga Nacional; use of renewable energy (hydro, wind, and solar); aggressive short-term plan for reduction in CO2e emissions; and education, medical, and insurance programs available to its workforce. The vineyard has been working towards this award for almost a decade. In 2009, Casa Ferrreirinha was a founding member of the Portuguese Association for Grapevine Diversity (PORVID), a non-profit association promoting biodiversity and managing the preservation of indigenous grapevine varieties like the Touriga Nacional.

Casa Ferreirinha is a pioneer brand in the production of Douro Wines. Innovation married with tradition, as well as the profound knowledge of the Douro Region, are the guarantee of exceptional wines such as Vinha Grande, Quinta da Leda, Callabriga and Barca Velha.

“Casa Ferreirinha and its parent organization, Sogrape Vinhos, have put together an impressive sustainability program culminating with the outstanding taste and quality of its Quinta Da Leda wine,” said Dr. Ed Schneider, BRIT’s president and executive director. “From their sustainable programs in the field, to their progressive workforce and community programs, to being good leaders and stewards within the Portuguese wine industry; we congratulate their achievements.”

“Sogrape has been for a long time promoting excellence sustainable practices at environmental, economic and social levels. This recognition reaffirmed by BRIT means to us an acknowledgment of our work in this field, in particular of all sustainability programs of Casa Ferreirinha (this year awarded platinum) and Sandeman, cherishing not only the progress in viticultural practices, but also on the initiatives applied to the winemaking processes, or even on social programs to workers and community,” said António Oliveira Bessa, board member at Sogrape Vinhos, SA. “We believe that, more and more, sustainable production and consumption will be a distinctive factor of Sogrape brands.”

The awarded wine was Casa Ferreirinha’s Quinta da Leda, 2015

Additional BRIT sustainable awards went to the following outstanding wineries:

Gold medals

  • Sandeman, Avintes, Portugal. Submitted Sandeman Vintage Port 2016
  • Tasca D’Almerita, Palermo, Sicily, Italy. Submitted Il Tascante 2015 – Tascante Estate
  • Jowler Creek Vineyard & Winery, Platte City, Missouri. Submitted Estate Norton 2016
  • E. & J. Gallo Winery, Modesto, California. Submitted J Vineyards Pinot Noir 2016. Gallo receives special recognition for its corporate-wide, multi-brand sustainability programs and for the organization’s industry leadership.

Silver medal

  • Ruffino, Pontassieve, Italy. Submitted Riserva Ducale Oro

Presentation of the platinum award to Casa Ferreirinha will be made in Fort Worth on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 during BRIT’s Vine to Table dinner and auction fundraising event.

Competition for the new BRIT/FIVS international sustainable winegrowing award beginning in 2020 starts May 2019. All competition rules, judging criteria, and submission dates remain the same. Please check the BRIT web site for details: http://www.brit.org/wineaward

Wine Lovers: Supermarkets are making it easier to buy quality wines for less money under their own labels

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NEW YORK,/PRNewswire/ — American shoppers, who may be enjoying more wines than ever before, need look no further than their supermarket to find quality wines that cost a-third less than similar bottles from the country’s biggest wine producers, according to the Private Label Manufacturers Association.

“Why not buy the retailer’s own brands of wine at the supermarket and save?,” says Jeff Siegel, an award-winning wine writer whose blog The Wine Curmudgeon is one of the best-read wine websites on the Internet. “That’s the way it works in Europe. So why shouldn’t it work that way in the U.S.?”

And what better time to get those savings with the holidays here?

Siegel’s point: European supermarkets have sold private label wines for years, to both critical and consumer acclaim. Tesco, one of Britain’s biggest grocery chains, won more than 140 medals for its wines at the 2018 International Wine Challenge, while labels from discounter Aldi – costing an average of just $7 each – won 43 medals at a previous wine challenge.

Even more telling perhaps was recent news that thousands of British shoppers queued up on a sultry August morning a year ago to buy Lidl’s $5 Prosecco – and were devastated when the chain sold out almost immediately. This is the opportunity U.S. supermarkets have as well, says Siegel, whose blog focuses on the wines most Americans can afford to buy – and does so in English and not winespeak. “Imagine how happy their wine drinking customers would be hearing they can buy terrific sparkling wine for $5? They’d be waiting in line for the store to open too.”

It’s more than speculation: Whole Foods Markets introduced their Sommelier Selects program last year featuring seasonal wine recommendations under its own labels along with suggested food pairings by the retailer’s Master Sommelier. And this year, Walmart launched its curated Winemakers Selection label at very popular prices, with wines that are curated from many of the best wine regions of the world.

These are all wines offered under the retailer’s name, just like their other store brand foods and household products, and many retailer wine programs here in the U.S. have had international success. Bottles from Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Aldi were honored at the Private Label Manufacturers Association’s 2018 International Salute to Excellence Awards, which reviewed more than 300 wines from 39 supermarket chains in 13 countries. The judges, who included Masters of Wine, sommeliers, wine writers, and retail industry professionals, gave awards to a $9 chardonnay from Aldi, a $10 sparkling wine from Trader Joe’s, and a $22 cabernet sauvignon from Costco.

“But that should be just the beginning,” according to Siegel. “It shouldn’t be three wines, but dozens of wines. Why not a $6 rose? Or an $8 sauvignon blanc? Or a $9 pinot noir? The idea that quality wine has to cost a certain amount is as old fashioned as a dial telephone. Otherwise, how would the Europeans be so successful?”

Think of all the holiday celebrations that would be that much more enjoyable if shoppers would worry a lot less about what to drink at a time when value is even more important, given the tangle of gift lists, party demands, and stretched-to-the-limit budgets.

Newcomer ‘El Pandillo’ Rated The Number One Tequila Distillery by TasteTequila.com

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JESÚS MARÍA, Mexico /PRNewswire/ — TasteTequila recently ranked the El Pandillo distillery (http://g4tequila.life/) as number one in its exclusive tracking of all tequila producers. The designation was based on the ratings from over 41,800 different consumers and tequila judges using the Tequila Matchmaker mobile app. The family-owned distillery at El Pandillo placed at the head of over 129 active tequila distilleries currently operating in Mexico.

Makers of the premium G4 Tequila, El Pandillo recently launched distribution into the U.S. and the brand is the buzz of the tequila business nationwide. Owner and operator Felipe Camarena hails from a family line of great tequila makers, transforming his passion for making great tequila into an art. Camarena’s engineering background was strategically applied to perfecting his line of pure, luxury tequilas.  The name G4 simply represents the 4th generation of Felipe’s line of the Camarena family.

Camarena honored the traditions behind tequila making while adding his own unique twists: using harvested rainwater and specially modified copper stills, 100 percent pure Blue Agave from their own family farm, modified stone ovens, and an entirely unique mechanical alternative to the traditional stone tahona used to crush the cooked agave. Numerous proprietary processes eliminate any bitter notes in the flavor, producing a smooth, perfect taste.

The final result is bottled simply, though beautifully. As Camarena himself noted: “I’m not in the business of making fancy bottles, I’m in the business of making great tequila.”

The secrets that go into crafting Camarena’s G4 are many, but expert tasters agree that a combination of multi-generation wisdom and innovative new distilling technologies, plus captured rainwater and the highest of the highland’s agave are a winning combination. G4 has already received top accolades this year:

Spirits Competition Awards

  • Number One Distillery in the World: TasteTequila.com.
  • Gold Medals from the Beverly Hills Spirits Competition.
  • Best in Category and Best Agave Spirit at Spirits of Mexico.
  • Best in Show at the WSWA industry event in Las Vegas.
  • Platinum Medals and Best in Show by Tequila Aficionado.

Learn more about the El Pandillo distillery here.

About G4 Tequila

The pinnacle of craftsmanship, G4 Tequila is the premium product of four generations of tequila mastery. Producers of the eponymous G4 Tequila, the distillery is well known for meticulous craftsmanship and attention to excellence. Previously unavailable in the U.S., G4 has begun distributing in an impressive 30-state rollout over 2018. Learn more about G4 at: www.G4Tequila.life.

Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout Wins Gold at Tastings.com World Beer Championships

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FORT BRAGG, Calif. (PRWEB) – North Coast Brewing Company, an independent craft brewery producing exceptional, high-quality beers, is excited to announce that its Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout has been awarded a gold medal at the Tastings.com World Beer Championships.

Tastings.com judges described Old Rasputin as “a craveable hoppy imperial stout that is superbly balanced,” rewarding it with a ranking of 94 points and a gold medal at the Tastings.com World Beer Championships.

Internationally recognized, the Tastings.com World Beer Championships is America’s oldest annual international beer competition, dating back to 1994. The World Beer Championships reviews a different beer category each month, using feedback provided from an exceptional panel of judges with expertise in categories such as beer retail, production, distribution and taste. Beers are blind tasted and judged on a 100-point scale, providing the highest level of control to guarantee beer fans with top quality reviews.

“North Coast Brewing Company is thrilled that our Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout received a 94-point score from the Tastings.com World Beer Championships,” said North Coast Brewing Company Brewmaster, Chuck Martins. “Old Rasputin is a fan favorite and it’s an honor to be recognized with one of the highest ranking scores.”

Rooted in history, Old Rasputin is one of North Coast Brewing’s most famous brews, nationally recognized within the craft beer industry. Featuring a remarkable mix of rich flavor elements and a warming finish, Old Rasputin is a timeless take on an imperial stout.

Old Rasputin is an internationally distributed beer and can be found locally using North Coast Brewing Company’s beer locator.

About North Coast Brewing Company:
Founded in 1988, North Coast Brewing Company is an independent craft brewery producing exceptional, award-winning beers in Fort Bragg, CA. North Coast Brewing crafts a wide range of beers, including barrel-aged ales and popular seasonal offerings, including a Berliner Weisse series, to 48 U.S. states and internationally. A pioneer in the brewing community, North Coast Brewing Company is focused on sustainability and is a Certified B Corporation, California Benefit Corporation and Best for the World 2018 Changemaker honoree. For more information on North Coast Brewing, please visit: https://northcoastbrewing.com/.

Vintage Eve Circa 8/2008: Meeting Local Winemakers

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My husband Eddie and I spending a day wine tasting in Santa Clarita (SCV) is not news. But wine tasting at two different vineyards within ten minutes of our house in SCV is.

Chris and Jeannie Carpenter of Newhall have a cellar I have long coveted. Free standing and temperature controlled, with an attached sitting room, it is normally filled with exceptional wine. But on this day it was also filled with oak barrels to sample from and a “wine thief” (think classy turkey baster) to sample with.

Me interviewing Jeannie Carpenter, a few years after this article was written.

“We have what you call a collective co-op,” Chris began. “Three couples and a single winemaker. We had 500 pounds of Cabernet that we made into 30 gallons. Two 26 gallon half barrels – they’re easier to move and hold plenty of wine anyway -makes about 35 bottles per couple.”

“The grapes are all from a local grower in Bouquet Canyon. During the crush the grapes are ‘popped’, cleaned, covered, slosh around in a truck getting here and then we ferment it for a month with the skins on.”

“Our ‘Lost Pruners’ vintage was the last one we made. We will age the new one in American oak for about 4-5 more months. The wood softens the wine, but we have the remaining juice in glass containers. If it happens to be too ‘oaky’, we’ll blend them to taste. We are also making a Barolo style from 100% Nebbiolo grapes from Santa Ynez. It will be a little drier and needs one more year before taking home.”

At this point Chris checks his composition book to tell us that his “Cabernet Tempranillo was first bottled in July of 07.”

We asked how in the heck he learned how to do this and he said, “Reading a lot and learning by mistakes. I also tried to do everything my favorite winemaker from Saxum did; right down to picking his brain and planting the same grapes. The 200 vines we’re growing are Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre that we’ll use to make a Southern Rhone-style blend. I’ve learned a lot from collaborating with my friend, Roman Weiser (another Newhall grower) on the crafting of these wines.”

We reluctantly head away from the cellar and out to take a look at the vines. Jeannie took charge of our tour then. “I plan of having Assistance League fundraisers here,” Jeannie said. “To support our community.”

She then introduced us to her brother-in-law, Tim Carpenter, who had named the “Compa Vineyards” in memory of his dog, who was lovingly seen as a true “compadre”.

“You can come back for the grape stomp,” Chris added. “We may do that next time. Until then we let the grapes drop, to give structure to our 2009 harvest.” We’re there.

Then, back in the car, we drove ten minutes to Two Hearts Vineyard, this time into the hills above Hasley Canyon and to the beautiful home of Kerry and Susie (not Suzie Q.) Clark. And, even though they were in the midst of preparing for a wedding, it didn’t prevent them from being gracious hosts to an impromptu wine tasting.

With a 4 year old all organic vineyard they have just a bit over 200 vines. Growing Rhone reds, Primitivo, Cabernet and Barbera; whites include Colombard, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne and White Malvasia.

“We are strictly amateur winemakers for now so we either drink our wine or give it away,” Susie reported. “We also buy grapes (Paso, Santa Barbara, and Lodi), and juice (Napa, Washington, Australia and Austria) and even use wine kits. We have won quite a few awards for our wine in the past few years. Last month we received 5 medals at the 2008 Wine Maker International Amateur Wine Competition.”

“There were over 4,300 entries from 6 different countries making it the largest wine competition of any kind – commercial or amateur – in North America. Our 2006 Cat Canyon Santa Barbara County Sangiovese won a gold medal and the 06 Sangio-Cab blend took a silver. The 2006 and 2007 Gruner-Veltliner both took gold medals and the 07 Viognier got a silver. Our wines have won awards at other competitions including the California State Fair and the L.A. Cellarmasters U.S. Winemaking Competition”.

“We enjoy the competitions as professional judges give us feedback on our wines”.

It was a hell of a tasting. I had a hard time pouring out any of the wines Kerry had us taste. But the warm weather, excellent learning experience along with the subtle cheeses, fruits and meats, all increased our pairing experience.

“It all happened by accident,” Kerry explained. “We were invited to go to Napa and all I thought was that I didn’t need any auto parts.” There was a jokester in this winemaker. “Now we have a hard time taking a vacation at all because we can’t predict when the grapes are going to be ready for pick up, tasting and testing.”

“I enjoy writing the labels,” Kerry said. “I think every wine has a story to tell. My labels help tell the story of what’s in the bottle. Wine should be fun!” My husband read one of his quips, “Be a mellow fellow – drink Bordello Verdello” on the 2006 Mullaro Creek and “GRU-V” the 2006 Gruner Veltliner.

“Making wine isn’t hard,” Kerry continues, “But making good wine is. We started making small batches of beer before we lived in this house. And it was actually more complex with grinding grains and adding caramel. We had names like Brain Dead Red and Liver Killer Lager. Beer should be fun too!”

“We are also very green conscious: This is not a Rombauer Chardonnay, it’s my French Colombard, and we just reused the bottle.” Other wine making tips include oak cubes and stays and a cold fermentation process that “keeps the whites delicate.”
“In blending my own wines I can make my own decisions and make them consistent, I’m a slave to nature. But we don’t try to strong arm our grapes to taste a certain way, we go where the grapes take us.”

So do I.

Vintage Eve 7/2015: Judging The Long Beach Grand Cru

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I was a little fretful…panicked is actually the right word, about judging the Long Beach Grand Cru for two days after only serving as a guest judge in the LA Wine Competition two years ago…once. I recognized the names of some of the judges, and personally knew quite a few, but I thought I better up my game and do some research.

I read Factors Considered in Wine Evaluation by Alexis Hartung (printed in the Winter Issue, 1999 AWS Journal Volume 31, No. 4 found online: http://www.bjcp.org/mead/Factors_Wine_Eval.pdf) and then I was also lucky enough to find the actual Judging Process that the Long Beach Grand Cru uses on their website. (It turned out that I was ready, even before doing the review work.)

Shenanigans?

There were no shenanigans during the judging process, but it WAS fun. All those numbered wine glasses crowding around me waiting to be swirled, sniffed, tasted and spat was also accompanied by the appropriate items to cleanse any palate: green olives, sliced gray beef, water crackers and waxy no-flavor cheese. (Good thing our meals were fully flavored!)

Panel l to r - David Stevens, Joe Hart, Stephen Young and Mike Stepanovich

Panel l to r – David Stevens, Joe Hart, Stephen Young and Mike Stepanovich

The panel I was assigned to was led by David Stevens (Senior Wine Consultant, Davon International), and included Joe Hart (Hart Winery), Mike Stepanovich (Wine Journalist, Bakersfield, CA.) and Stephen H. Young (graduate of the American Wine Society Wine Judge Certification Program).

These knowledgeable gentleman, and the wine, made my nervousness fall away pretty quickly. Soon we were moving at a good pace. At the end of each round we discussed our findings and came to a consensus if a wine received no medal, bronze, silver or gold.

There was so much thought and consideration in awarding each medal if made me pause, how often do you pause and consider buying a wine based on a medal? As much as you do a wine with a high numerical score? You are doing wineries a disservice to only consider one ranking body, in my now-educated opinion.

Each panel, there were 26 judges in all, had nearly 100 wines to judge on the first day, about half that they second, and finally did a round of sweepstakes “sweeps” to determine which of the Gold medals were all-around favorites of all the judges. Many of the entries and winners came from small producers outside of California.

There was a distinct level of camaraderie amongst the judges as some had been doing the Long Beach Grand Cru competition for 20+ years. It was an honor to join them that I hope to repeat annually.

Dinner, More Wine, and the Point of it All

Day one closed with a wonderful dinner and unlimited wine tasting (wines from the day and more) at Parker’s Lighthouse. Our private room was full and during the first hour or so many of the judges, Long Beach Grand Cru Board of Director members and volunteers spilled out into the patio for a view of the Queen Mary.

It was then that a tall gentleman wearing a cowboy slipped a bottled of wine from Stolpman Vineyards onto the tasting table. It took me about a nanosecond to figure out who that was. Tom Stolpman is also on the Board of Directors. A second after that I learned that he met fellow board member, James McAdams, in law school in the 70s and the two practiced in the same Long Beach firm.

Executive Producer Kim Vu welcomed the diners and introduced organizer Magdalena “Maggie” Davis, who in turn thanked the volunteers. Judge and local SCV sommelier, George Skorka then stood up to say “(he received) dignity and kindness from volunteers, my life is better because we spend two days here.”

“An amazing crew has done this for 21 years and the Board of Directors of the Grand Cru thanks you,” Executive Director, Silvia Arqueta said. “All of the money made from the event goes to the legal aid of Long Beach and the lawyers that dedicate themselves to poverty law. Long Beach has the second highest number of children living in poverty and they work to lower that number every year.”

Tom Stolpman commented that we need to reach out and help others by serving in city council, etc., as that helps the common good and that equals legal aid. “At the end of the day the message of tonight is that we all walk out of here thinking that we are doing better and maybe not enough. Thank you for feeling that.” It was a sobering thought.

The Winners

Sweepstakes Nominees

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Balletto Vineyards, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Russian River

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Bodegas Marilena, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, 2012, Maxixe, Valle de Guadalupe

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Cakebread Cellars, Dancing Bear Ranch, 2012, Dancing Bear Ranch, Howell Mountain

Calista, Russian River Pinot Noir, 2012, Russian River Valley

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, 42° Parallel Chancellor, 2010, Rhode Island

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Icewine, NV, American

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel Red, NV, Indiana

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

  1. Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Joseph Cellars Winery, ZINFANDEL, 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Limited Production, California, Sonoma County

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Noceto, Rosato di Sangiovese, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Pearmund Cellars, Ameritage Reserve, 2013, Reserve, Virginia

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, pureCoz Napa Valley Red Wine, 2010, Napa Valley (AVA)

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

St. James Winery, Strawberry, NV, American

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

 

Chairman’s Best of Class

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012,  Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV,  Carneros

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014,  American

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

  1. Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012,  California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

 

Double Gold Medal Winners

Balletto Vineyards, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Russian River

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Icewine, NV, American

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Cycles Gladiator, Petite Sirah, 2013, California, Central Coast

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel Red, NV,  Indiana

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 Bubbly, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hooker, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

  1. Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Milbrandt Vineyards, Traditions Merlot, 2012, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Milbrandt Vineyards, Traditions Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Pearmund Cellars, Ameritage Reserve, 2013, Reserve, Virginia

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, pureCoz Napa Valley Red Wine, 2010, Napa Valley (AVA)

Reggae Wines, Red, NV, Indiana

St. James Winery, Moscato, NV, American

St. James Winery, Strawberry, NV, American

Swedish Hill Winery, Vignoles, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

 

Gold Medal Winners

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Andeluna, Malbec, 2014, 1300, Mendoza, Tupungato

Angove Family Winemakers, Family Crest Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre, 2014, McLaren Vale

Anyela’s Vineyards, Dry Riesling, 2013, Anyela’s Vineyards, Finger Lakes

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Barefoot, Sweet Red, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Red Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Berry Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Perfectly Pink, NV, California

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Big Cork Vineyards, Vidal, 2014, Maryland

Bodega Garzón, Albariño, 2014, Uruguay

Bodega Garzón, Tannat, 2013, Uruguay

Bodegas Marilena, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, 2012, Maxixe, Valle de Guadalupe

Boeger Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, El Dorado

Boeger Winery, Zinfandel, 2013, Estate, El Dorado

Bowers Habor Vineyards Medium Sweet, Riesling, 2014, Estate Blend, Old Mission Peninsula

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Broadside, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Margarita Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Paso Robles

Cakebread Cellars, Dancing Bear Ranch, 2012, Dancing Bear Ranch, Howell Mountain

Calista, Russian River Pinot Noir, 2012, Russian River Valley

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carol Shelton, Zinfandel, 2013, Wild Thing Zinfandel, Mendocino County

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, 42° Parallel Chancellor, 2010, Rhode Island

Cartlidge & Browne, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, North Coast

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cedar Creek Winery, Waterfall Riesling, 2014, American

Chacewater, Petite Sirah, 2012, Lake County

Chatom Vineyards, Cuvee, 2011, Calaveras County

Cholame Vineyard, Chardonnay, 2012, La Presa Vineyard, Oak Aged, Santa Barbara County

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Clos Pegase Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Cobblestone Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009, Napa Valley, Atlas Peak

Cosentino Winery, Zinfandel, 2013, The Zin, Lodi

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Brianna, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Fireboat Red, 2013, New York

Criterion, Carmenere, 2013, Valle Colchagua

Criterion, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Coonawarra

Cycles Gladiator, Chardonnay, 2013, California, Central Coast

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014,  delle Venezie IGT

Dominant Seven, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Draxton, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Nelson Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Draxton, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Eye Chart, Red Blend, NV, California

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, Chenin Blanc, 2014, American

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, Riesling, 2013, Leelanau Peninsula

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Biker”, 2012, Biker, Paso Robles

Four Vines, Zinfandel “The Sophisticate”, 2012, California, Sonoma County

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Truant”, 2012, Truant, California (State Appellation)

Fresno State Winery, Touriga, 2012, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Juicy Sweet Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Gallo Family Vineyards, Moscato, NV, California

Girl and Dragon, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Veneto IGT

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Traminette, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Ice, 2013, Finger Lakes

Goyette, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma County

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cabernet Trois, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Mosaic – Bourdeaux blend, 2013, American

Hagafen, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Estate Bottled, Napa Valley

Hagafen, Brut Cuvee Sparkling Wine Methode Champenoise, 2012, Brut, California, Napa Valley

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Hyatt Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

  1. Lohr Estates, Flume Crossing Sauvigon Blanc, 2014, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Jamieson Ranch Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Joseph Cellars Winery, ZINFANDEL, 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Limited Production, California, Sonoma County

Joseph Cellars Winery, CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2011, Bartholomew Family Vineryard, Estate, California, Napa Valley

Judd’s Hill, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Rutherford, Napa

L.A. Cetto, L.A. CETTO ZINFANDEL, 2013, valle de guadalupe, Estate Bottled, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Zinfandel, 2013, Reserve, Amador County

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Chardonnay, 2013, Reserve, Sonoma Valley

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2010, Reserve, Napa Valley (AVA)

La Marca, Prosecco, NV, Veneto IGT

Light Horse, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucas & Lewellen, Malbec, 2012, Valley View Vineyard, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucky Star, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Lucky Star, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Main & Geary, Petite Sirah, 2013, California

Main & Geary, Zinfandel, 2012, Dry Creek Valley

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Menage a Trois, Prosecco, NV, Prosecco DOC

Myles & Moore, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Narmada Winery, Yash-Vir, 2011, Virginia

Noceto, Rosato di Sangiovese, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Oak Farm Vineyards, Barbera, 2013, Lodi

Oak Mountain Winery, Pinotage, 2012, Estate Grown, Temecula Valley

Open Kimono, Riesling, 2013, Washington

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas Viognier Reserve, 2014, Reserve, Texas

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Ray’s Creek, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Central Coast

Red Soles Stillhouse, California Hooch – New Brandy, NV, California, Paso Robles

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

Reggae Wines, Blush, NV, Indiana

Rex Goliath, Pinot Noir*, NV, America

Rex Goliath, Sauvignon Blanc*, NV, Australia

Rex Goliath, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, Chile

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Save Me San Francisco, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Bullet Proof Sauvignon Blanc, California

SeaGlass, Chardonnay, 2014, California, Santa Barbara County

SeaGlass, Riesling, 2013, Monterey County

South Creek Vineyards & Winery, 2011 Maestro, 2011, South Creek Vineyards & Winery, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, North Carolina

St. James Winery, Vignoles, 2014, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Blackberry, NV, American

St. James Winery, Blueberry, NV, American

Stonehedge, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Sweet Red, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Blue Waters Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Terra dOro, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Terra dOro, Zinfandel, 2013, Amador County

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Lahoma Vineyard, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Chardonnay, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Trailhead, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Trecini, MERLOT, 2013, DUNN, California, Russian River Valley

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Ventana, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Ventana, Estate Grown, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Viansa Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma Valley

Vina Ventisquero, Carmenere, 2012, Colchagua

Vista da Régua, Port Blend, 2013, Caráter, Douro DOC

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Merlot, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Wave Series, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Leyda Valley

Whispering Oaks Winery, Blueberry Blush, 2015, Florida

Windsor Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2013, Platinum Series, Dry Creek Valley

Windsor Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Platinum Series, Alexander Valley

Wine Sisterhood, Passionate Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Wollersheim Winery, Prairie Fume, 2014, American

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

ZD, Pinot Noir, 2013, Carneros

 

Silver Medal Winners

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Project Z, 2013, Washington

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Meyer Reserve, Washington

3 Ball, Zinfandel, 2012, California

Acronym, Red Blend, 2013, California

Adored, Red Blend, 2013, California, North Coast

Alba Vineyard, Chelsea Dry Rosé, 2014, Chelsea Dry Rosé, Warren Hills

Alba Vineyard, Riesling, 2014, Alba Estate Vineyard Dry Riesling, Warren Hills

Alcantara Vineyards, Red Blend, NV, Confluence VI, Arizona, Yavapai County

Alcantara Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, Arizona, Yavapai County

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Merlot, 2012, Alexander Valley

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Estate Grown & Bottled, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Alpen Cellars, Chardonnay, 2014, Trinity Lakes

Alpen Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, Trinity Lakes

Angove Family Winemakers, Dr. Angove Recipe Red Blend, 2013, South Australia

Angove Family Winemakers, Family Crest Shiraz, 2013, McLaren Vale

Anyela’s Vineyards, Avail, 2013, 2013 Avail, Estate Vineyards, Finger Lakes

Balletto Vineyards, Teresa’s Chardonnay, 2014, Estate Bottled & Produced, Russian River Valley

Balletto Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Estate Grown, Estate Bottled, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

Balverne, Chardonnay, 2013, Unoaked, Russian River Valley

Bandit, Chardonnay, NV, California

Bandit, Red Blend, NV, California

Barefoot, Chardonnay, NV, California

Barefoot, Merlot, NV, California

Barefoot, Pinot Noir, NV, California

Barefoot, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, Argentina

Barefoot, Riesling, NV, California

Barefoot, Sauvignon Blanc, NV, California

Barefoot, Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Red Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Pink Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Rosa Red Blend, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Tropical Fusion, NV, California (State Appellation)

Barefoot Bubbly, Prosecco, NV, Italy

Barefoot Bubbly, Moscato Spumante, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Brut Cuvee, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Peach Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Citrus Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Pink Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Crisp White, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Summer Red, NV, California

Big Cork Vineyards, Syrah Rosé, 2014, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Barbera, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Maryland

Black Box Wines, Merlot (2013), 2013, California

Black Box Wines, Malbec (2014*), 2014, Argentina, Mendoza

Black Willow Winery, Classic Diamond, 2014, Estate Bottled & Produced, New York State

Bodegas Marilena, 2011, Malaguena, Valle de Guadalupe

Boeger Winery, Barbera, 2012, Estate, El Dorado

Borrellie, Zinfandel, 2013, Sonoma County

Cabpothesis, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Lodi

Calista, Pinot Noir “The Coast Range”, 2012, The Coast Range, California (State Appellation)

Carol Shelton, Pinot Noir, 2013, Larson Vineyard, Carneros (Sonoma)

Carol Shelton, Petite Sirah, 2012, Florence Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Carol Shelton, Zinfandel, 2013, Piazza Vineyard, Lodi

Cartlidge & Browne, Merlot, 2013, North Coast

Cedar Creek Winery, LaBelle Vie, 2014, American

Cedar Creek Winery, Gewurztraminer, 2014, American

Cell Block, Shackled Red, 2013, Sonoma County

Chacewater, Zinfandel, 2013, California, Sierra Foothills

Chacewater, Gwin, 2012, California, Lake County

Chacewater, Nell, 2012, Red Hills

Chalkboard, Red Blend, 2013, California

Charles & Charles, Rose, 2014, Washington, Columbia Valley

Cholame Vineyard, Rose, NV, La Presa Vineyard, Barrel Aged, Central Coast

Chronic Cellars, Spritz & Giggles, NV, California

Chronic Cellars, Dead Nuts, 2013, Paso Robles

Chronic Cellars, Sofa King Bueno, 2013, Paso Robles

Chronic Cellars, Purple Paradise, 2013, Paso Robles

Clos Pegase Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Mitsuko’s Vineyard, Napa Valley

Coastal Oak, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Coastal Oak, Pinot Noir, 2012, California

Collavini, Pinot Grigio, 2013, Villa Caniungo, Friuli DOC

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Lux Pinot Noir, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Riesling, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Cabernet Zinfandel, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Malbec, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Chardonnay, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Viognier, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Pinot Noir, NV, American

Cosentino Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, The Cab, Lodi

Cosentino Winery, The Dark, 2013, Lodi

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Merlot, 2012, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Anniversary Cuvee, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Coyote Moon Vineyards, River Time, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Island Mama, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Twisted Sister, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, River Run, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Frontenac Blanc, 2012, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, La Crescent, 2013, New York

Criterion, Rioja, 2009, Rioja DOCa

Criterion, Malbec, 2012, Mendoza, Uco Valley

Cult X, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Cult X, Meritage, 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Cycles Gladiator, Merlot, 2013, California, Central Coast

Cycles Gladiator, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, Central Coast

D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Russian River Valley

Darkhorse, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Darkhorse, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Darkhorse, Merlot, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Davis Bynum Winery, Jane’s Vineyard, Single Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2013, Jane’s Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Dominant Seven, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Dominant Seven, Red Blend, 2012, California

Don Ernestos, CLARNET Red Table Wine, 2014, California, Lodi

Donovan-Parke, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Donovan-Parke, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Donovan-Parke, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Duck Commander, Wood Duck Chardonnay, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Duck Commander, Pintail Moscato, 2013, California

Duck Commander, Miss Priss Pink Moscato, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Duck Commander, Triple Threat Red Blend, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Dusk To Dawn, Chardonnay, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel White, NV, Indiana

Eastpoint, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Eberle, Zinfandel, 2013, Steinbeck, Wine-Bush & Cocavin, Paso Robles

Eberle, 2012, Paso Robles

Eberle, Barbera, 2012, Paso Robles

Ektimo Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Ektimo Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Russian River Valley

Elder Rock, Chardonnay, 2013, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Elmaro, Vidal, 2013, America (Country Appellation)

Fancy Pants, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Fancy Pants, Red, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Processo, NV, Prosecco DOC

Fifty Shades of Grey, White Silk, 2013, California

Fifty Shades of Grey, Red Satin, 2012, California

Flint & Steel, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, California, Napa Valley

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Maverick”, 2012, Amador County, Sierra Foothills

Four Vines, “Skeptic” Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Four Vines, “Willing” Chardonnay, 2013, Monterey

Frank Family Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, Napa Valley

Frank Family Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Napa Valley

Frank Family Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2012, Napa Valley

Fresno State Winery, Sangiovese, 2011, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fresno State Winery, Merlot, 2012, Duarte Vineyards, San Joaquin County

Fresno State Winery, Petite Sirah, 2009, Duarte Linden Hills Vineyard, Single Vineyard, San Joaquin County

Frogtown Cellars, 404, 2011, Estate, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Georgia

Frogtown Cellars, Convergence, 2011, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, American

Frogtown Cellars, Compulsion, 2012, American

Frogtown Cellars, Propaganda, 2011, Frogtown Cellars Dahlonega, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Georgia, Lumpkin County

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Juicy Sweet Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Galen Glen, Riesling, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Pennsylvania

Galleano winery, Sherry, NV, Mary Margaret Sherry, Cucamonga Valley

Girl and Dragon, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, North Coast

Gloria Ferrer, Sonoma Brut, NV, Sonoma County

Gloria Ferrer, Carneros Cuvée, 2004, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Noirs, NV, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, VA de VI, NV, Sonoma County

Gloria Ferrer, Chardonnay, 2012, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Golden Spumanté, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Classic Cream Sherry, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Snow Goose, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Finalé White Port, 2013, Finger Lakes

Goyette, Pinot Noir, 2012, Sonoma Coast

Grape Creek Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Bellissimo – Super Tuscan Styled, 2012, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Rendezvous, 2013, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cabernet Blanc, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Grand Rouge, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Petite Sirah, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cuvee Blanc, 2014, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Riesling, 2014, American

Graton Cellars, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Greater Than One >1, 2 Red Blend, 2013, California

Greater Than One >1, 3 White Blend, 2013, California

Hagafen, Merlot, 2013, Estate Bottled, Napa Valley

Halcyon, Petit Verdot, 2012, Vintner’s Select, Lodi (AVA)

Handsome Devil, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Handsome Devil, Red Blend, 2013, California

Harmony Cellars, Red Bordeaux, 2011, Diamond Reserve Aria, Meritage, Paso Robles

Harmony Cellars, Zinfandel, 2013, Grandpa Barlogio, Paso Robles

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Petite Sirah, 2011, Red Hills AVA, Demeter Certified Biodynamic® Grapes, California, Lake County

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009, Lake County, Red Hills

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Latigo- Fortified Dessert Wine, 2010, Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Biodynamic Grapes, Red Hills Lake County

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Red Hills AVA, Demeter Certified Biodynamic® Grapes, California, Lake County

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Estines Vineyard, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Russian River Valley

Hawley, Zinfandel, 2013, Ponzo Vineyard, California, Russian River Valley

Hawley, Petite Sirah, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Heliodoro, Pinot Noir, 2013, Dos Sobrinos, California, Russian River Valley

Hyacinth, Pinot Noir, 2012, Santa Lucia Highlands

Hyatt Vineyards, Merlot, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

Hyatt Vineyards, Roadside Market Red, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

Hyatt Vineyards, Syrah, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

It”So, Merlot, NV, California

  1. Lohr Estates, Bay Mist White Riesling, 2014, Monterey County
  2. Lohr Estates, Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles
  3. Lohr Vineyard Series, CAROL’S VINEYARD Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, St. Helena ~ Napa Valley (AVA)

Jamieson Ranch Vineyards, “Silver Spur” Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Limited, Napa Valley

Jewelry Box, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Central Coast

Jewelry Box, Chardonnay, 2012, Central Coast

Joel Gott, Cabernet Sauvignon #815, 2013, California

Joel Gott, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Sonoma County

Joseph Cellars Winery, Chardonnay, 2012, Thomas LaTour Vineyard Mt Veeter Hyde Clone 110R Root Stock, Limited Edition, California, Napa Valley, Mount Veeder

Joseph Cellars Winery, Cellar Select Blend Cabernet, 2011, Napa Valley, Limited Production, California, Napa Valley

Judd’s Hill, Red Blend, 2011, Napa

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO PETITE SIRAH PRIVATE RESERVE., 2010, VALLE DE GUADALUPE, Reserva, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO CHENÍN BLANC, 2014, valle de guadalupe, Estate Bottled, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

La Rusticana d ‘Orsa, La Rusticana d’Orsa Cinque, 2012, Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Cruz Mountains/Santa Clara Valley

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2011, Arita Hills Vineyard, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, SRH, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2011, Santa Rita Hills

Le Vigne Winery, Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Le Vigne Winery, Chardonnay, 2014, Paso Robles

Le Vigne Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles

Leopard Frog, Titillation MCC Pinotage Prestige Cuvee, 2011, Limited Release, Stellenbosch

Lions Peak, Lionesse, 2012, Paso Robles

Lions Peak, Proprietor’s Reserve, 2012, Paso Robles

Lions Peak, Vis a Vis, 2012, Paso Robles

Long Valley Ranch, Pinot Noir, 2013, Monterey

Lucas & Lewellen, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucas & Lewellen, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Valley View Vineyard, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Magistrate, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Main & Geary, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Main & Geary, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Main & Geary, Pinot Noir, 2013, Sonoma Coast

Marc Cellars, Cabernet, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marlo, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Gewurztraminer, 2013, Lake Erie

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Pinot Grigio, 2013, Finger Lakes

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Riesling, 2013, Faulkenhauser Block, Lake Erie

Menage a Trois, Merlot, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Moscato, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Middle Sister, Drama Queen, Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Middle Sister, Mischief Maker, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, California

Middle Sister, Sweet and Sassy, Moscato, NV, California

Middle Sister, Goodie Two Shoes, Pinot Noir, NV, California (State Appellation)

Milbrandt Vineyards, The Estates Merlot, 2011, Washington, Wahluke Slope

Milbrandt Vineyards, The Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Washington, Wahluke Slope

Monogamy, Truly Madly Deeply, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, North Coast

Montevina Winery, Independence Point Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Montevina Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Mullan Road, Columbia Valley Red Wine, 2012, Columbia Valley

Narmada Winery, Reflection, 2011, Virginia

Newmans Own, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Newmans Own, Common Good Red Blend, 2013, California

Nitty Gritty, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Noceto, Noceto Sangiovese, 2012, Estate Bottled & Produced, Amador County

Oak Mountain Winery, Chardonnay, 2014, Temecula Valley

Oak Mountain Winery, Fume Blanc, 2014, Temecula Valley

Obsidian Ridge, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Single Vineyard, Red Hills Lake County

Obsidian Ridge, “Half Mile” Proprietary Red Blend, 2011, Single Vineyard, Red Hills Lake County

Ogio, Prosecco, NV, Prosecco DOC

Owl Ridge, Syrah, 2012, Russian River

Owl Ridge, Sauvginon Blanc, 2014, Dry Creek Valley

Parkers Estate, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Parkers Estate, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Sonoma County

Pearmund Cellars, Petit Verdot, 2013, Toll Gate Vineyard, Barrel Aged, Virginia, Fauquier County

Pearmund Cellars, Petit Manseng, 2014, South River Vineyard, Virginia

Pearmund Cellars, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Toll Gate Vineyard, Virginia, Fauquier County

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas GSM, 2013, Texas

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas Viognier, 2014, Texas

Pedroncelli, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, East Side Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

Pedroncelli, Chardonnay, 2014, F. Johnson Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Penman Springs Vineyard, Merlot, 2011, Paso Robles

Pico & Vine, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Pico & Vine, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Piledriver, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Piledriver, Red Blend, 2013, Paso Robles

Poseidon Vineyard, Estate Chardonnay, 2013, Single Vineyard, Carneros

Poseidon Vineyard, Estate Pinot Noir, 2013, Single Vineyard, Carneros

Postcards, Merlot, 2012, North Coast

Promisqous, Red, NV, California

Purple Cowboy, Trail Boss Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, Paso Robles

Rampage, “Lodi” Zinfandel, 2012, Lodi

Rampage, Red Wine Blend, 2012, California

Randall Monroe, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Randall Monroe, Zinfandel, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Ray’s Creek, Chardonnay, 2013, Central Coast

Rays Station Winery, Merlot, 2013, Mendocino County

Red Soles Winery, Monkeyshine – Aged Port Style, NV, Paso Robles, Willow Creek District

Reggae Wines, White, NV, Indiana

Rex Goliath, Chardonnay*, NV, American

Rideau Vineyard, Estate Syrah, 2013, Rideau Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Rideau Vineyard, Siempre, 2013, Happy Canyon Vineyard, Estate Produced and Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Ringleader, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Ringleader, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Ringleader, Red Wine, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Robert Hall, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Paso Robles (AVA)

Robert Hall, Cuvee de Robles, 2014, California, Paso Robles

Robert Hall, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles (AVA)

Rock Falls Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2014, California

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Knotty Vines, Estate Zinfandel, 2012, Knotty Vines, Estate Vineyards, Estate Vineyards, Sonoma County, Northern Sonoma

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Merlot, 2012, Sonoma County

Ron Rubin, Pinot Noir, 2013, Family Owned, Russian River

Roza Ridge, Syrah, 2010, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Roza Ridge, Malbec, 2011, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Roza Ridge, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Sage Hill, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sage Hill, Malibu Coast

Santa Barbara Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, Santa Rita Hills

Santa Barbara Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Barbara Winery, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara Winery, Syrah, 2012, Santa Ynez Valley

Save Me San Francisco, Pinot Noir, 2013, Soul Sister Pinot Noir, California

Sea Monster, Chardonnay, 2013, Los Alamos Vineayrd, Single Vineyard, Santa Barbara County

Sea Monster, Octopussy, 2014, California, Central Coast

SeaGlass, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Shadowland, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Washington

Shiloh Road, Pinot Noir, 2013, Sonoma County

Sol Rio, White Sangria, NV, California

St. James Winery, Norton, 2013, Estate, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Cynthiana Norton, 2013, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, 2013, Pioneer Red, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, 2013, Pioneer White, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, NV, Friendship School White, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Riesling, NV, American

St. James Winery, Raspberry, NV, American

Stateland, Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Stateland, Chardonnay, 2012, Reserve, Santa Maria Valley

Stateland, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles

Stemilt Creek, Sweet Adelaide, NV, Signature Blend, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stemilt Creek, Nettie Rose’, NV, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stephen Vincent, Chardonnay, 2012, California, Sonoma County

Stephen Vincent, Crimson, 2012, California, Monterey County

Storyteller, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Sonoma County

Storyteller, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sonoma County

Storyteller, Red Blend, 2013, Sonoma County

Stray, Riesling, 2013, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, White Zinfandel, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Merlot, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Gewurztraminer, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Zinfandel, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Riesling, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pinot Noir, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Red Blend, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Red Moscato, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Riesling Cuvée, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Chardonnay, Riesling, 2014, Blue Waters, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Cynthia Marie Port, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Maréchal Foch, 2014, Finger Lakes

Terra dOro, Chenin Blanc/Viognier, 2014, California, Clarksburg

The Show, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Pinot Noir Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Traminette, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Pinot Gris, 2014, Finger Lakes

Three Thieves, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Three Thieves, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Three Thieves, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Trecini, ZINFANDEL, 2013, BRANNAN, Single Vineyard, Rockpile

Trinity Oaks, Caberent Sauvignon, 2013, California

Trinity Oaks, Chardonnay, 2014, California

Trinity Oaks, Merlot, 2013, California

Trinity Oaks, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Trinity River Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Grown, Produced and Bottled, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Sangiovese, 2013, Unfined & Unfiltered, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Unfined & Unfiltered, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trueblood, Chardonnay, 2011, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Trueblood, Chardonnay, 2012, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Twirl, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Twirl, Red Blend, 2012, California

Van Roekel Estate, Tempranillo, 2012, Temecula Valley

Van Roekel Estate, Viognier, 2014, Estate Produced and Bottled, Temecula Valley

Ventana Vineyards, Rubystone, 2014, Monterey County, Estate Grown & Bottled, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Vina Sympatica Sparkling Wines, Sparkling Red, NV, Lodi

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Cabernet Sauvignon, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Super Tuscan, 2013, Chalk Hill

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Reserve, Chalk Hill

Windsor Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Private Reserve, Sonoma County

Windsor Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Private Reserve, Sonoma County

Wine Sisterhood, Magical Moscato, NV, California

Wollersheim Winery, White Riesling, 2014, American

Wollersheim Winery, Prairie Blush, 2014, Wisconsin (State Appellation)

ZD, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

ZD, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Zynthesis Cellars, Zinfandel, 2013, Lodi

 

Bronze Medal Winners

Carol Shelton, Rosé, 2014, Wild Thing Rosé, Mendocino County

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, White Lotus, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Rhode Island

Cartlidge & Browne, Pinot Noir, 2013, North Coast

Chalkboard, Malbec, 2014, Argentina

Clos Pegase Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Mitsuko’s Vineyard, Carneros

Coastal Oak, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Cobblestone Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2010, New Zealand, Martinborough

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Gewurztraminer, NV, American

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Caberent Sauvignon, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Moscato, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Casa Papa Red, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Frontenac, 2012, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2011, New York

Cryptic, Cryptic, 2012, California (State Appellation)

D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, 2013, D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Russian River Valley

Daniel Gehrs, Chardonnay, 2014, Central Coast

Darkhorse, Red Blend, NV, No Appellation

De Bortoli DB Family Selection, Shiraz, 2014, Heathcote

Deep Purple, Zinfandel, 2012, California, Lodi

Don Ernestos, Beret, 2014, Napa Valley, California, Napa Valley

Don Ernestos, COLLAGE White wine blend, 2014, California, Lodi

Dona Paula, Sauvignon Blanc Los Cardos, 2014, Tupungato

Draxton, Malbec, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Dusk To Dawn, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Eberle, Sangiovese, 2013, Wine-Bush & Hidden Valley Vineyard, Paso Robles

Eberle, Chardonnay, 2014, Eberle Estate, Paso Robles

Eberle, Viognier, 2014, Mill Road Vineyard, Paso Robles

Eberle, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Eberle Estate, Paso Robles

Edenbrook, Pinot Grigio, 2013, California

Ektimo Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Dry Creek Valley

Elder Rock, Petite Sirah, 2013, Monterey

Elder Rock, Red Blend, 2013, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Elmaro, Marquette Rose, 2014, Robyn, Estate, Upper Mississippi River Valley

Fancy Pants, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Folie à Deux, Merlot Alexander Valley, 2012, Alexander Valley

Fre, Chardonnay, NV, California

Fre, Moscato, NV, California

Fresno State Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fresno State Winery, Tempranillo, 2011, Duarte Vineyards, California

Frogtown Cellars, Disclosure Steel Chardonnay, 2012, American

Frogtown Cellars, Petit Manseng, 2013, Frogtown Cellars Estate, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Georgia, Lumpkin County

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Gruner Veltliner, 2014, William Vigne, Seneca Lake

Galleano winery, Grenache Rosé, NV, August Grenache, Cucamonga Valley

Galleano winery, Zinfandel, NV, Pioneer’s Legendary Zinfandel, Cucamonga Valley

Gallo Family Vineyards, Sweet Red, NV, California

Gallo Family Vineyards, Pink Moscato, NV, California (State Appellation)

Gallo Family Vineyards, Red Moscato, NV, California (State Appellation)

Gallo Family Vineyards, White Zinfandel, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Pinot Noir, 2012, Estate Grown, Carneros

Goyette, Chardonnay, 2012, Sonoma Coast

Grape Creek Vineyards, Serendipity, 2012, American

Graton Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Gray Ghost, Vidal Blanc, 2014, Virginia

Greater Than One >1, 3 Red Blend, 2013, California

Hagafen, Chardonnay, 2014, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Hagafen, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate Grown & Bottled, California, Napa Valley

Havens, Syrah Blend, 2012, Black & Blue, Napa Valley

  1. Lohr Estates, South Ridge Syrah, 2013, Paso Robles (AVA)
  2. Lohr Estates, Riverstone Chardonnay, 2014, Arroyo Seco
  3. Lohr Vineyard Series, Fog’s Reach Pinot Noir, 2012, Arroyo Seco

Judd’s Hill, Viognier, 2014, Napa

Kumbaya Wines, Red Wine, 2013, California (State Appellation)

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO PETITE SIRAH, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Baja California, Guadalupe Valley

Lafond Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Musque Clone, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2012, Martin Ray Clone, Santa Rita Hills

Lawer Estates, Rose, 2014, Betsy’s Vineyard, California, Sonoma County, Knights Valley

Lawer Estates, Viognier, 2013, Betsy’s Vineyard, Sonoma County, Knights Valley

Le Vigne Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Leopard Frog, Southern Sirens, 2013, Limited Release, South Africa, Stellenbosch

Light Horse, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Long Valley Ranch, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Monterey

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Fireside Port, 2010, Columbia Valley AVA

Lucas & Lewellen, Pinot Noir GC H9, 2013, GOODCHILD HIGH 9 VINEYARD, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucky Star, Petite Sirah, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Magistrate, Chardonnay, 2012, Napa Valley

Main & Geary, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Main & Geary, “Rose” Pinot Noir, 2014, California

Marc Cellars, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Grigio, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marlo, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Marlo, Merlot, 2012, California

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Riesling, 2013, Nutt Road, Finger Lakes

Menage a Trois, Midnight Dark Red Blend, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Metz Road, Pinot Noir, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Metz Road, Chardonnay, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

MillsReef, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Hawkes Bay

Montevina Winery, Amita Hills Merlot, 2013, California

Myles & Moore, Chardonnay, 2013, Monterey

Napa Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Narmada Winery, Tannat, 2010, Virginia

Newmans Own, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Nitty Gritty, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Napa Valley

Noceto, Barbera, 2012, Linsteadt Vineyard, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Oak Mountain Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Temecula Valley

Ogio, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Puglia IGT

Our Daily Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Page Mill Winery, Angela’s Cuvee, 2014, Alameda County – Livermore Valley

Page Mill Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, California, Livermore Valley

Pamela’s, Un-Oaked Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County, Unoaked, California, Sonoma County

Parkers Estate, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Three Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

Pico & Vine, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Postcards, Red Blend, 2012, Lodi

Postcards, Chardonnay, 2012, North Coast

Prix, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Moskowite Ranch Block 53, Estate Bottled, California, Napa Valley

Prix, Pinot Noir, 2013, Montington, Proprietor Grown, Napa Valley, Coombsville

Purple Cowboy, Tenacious Red, 2013, Paso Robles

Randall Monroe, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Rays Station Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Mendocino County

Reata, Chardonnay, 2012, California, Sonoma, Carneros

Reata, Three County Pinot Noir, 2013, San Benito, California, Monterey

Rex Goliath, Pinot Grigio*, NV, America

Rex Goliath, Sangria*, NV, American

Rex Goliath, Malbec*, NV, Argentina

Rideau Vineyard, “Daliet” Reserve Estate Syrah, 2013, Rideau Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Charlotte’s Home, Estate Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Estate Vineyards, Northern Sonoma

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Estate Pinot Noir, 2013, Estate Vineyards, California

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Alexander Valley, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Alexander Valley, Estate Vineyards, Estate Vineyards, Alexander Valley

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma County

Ron Rubin, Pinot Noir, 2012, Green Valley of Russian River Valley

Sage Hill, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sage Hill, Malibu Coast

Save Me San Francisco, Chardonnay, 2013, Calling All Angels, California

Save Me San Francisco, Red, 2013, Drops of Jupiter, California

Shiloh Road, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Shiloh Road, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Sonoma County

South Shore Wine Company, Gruner Veltliner, 2013, Rassie Farms, Lake Erie

St. James Winery, Rougeon, NV, Friendship School Red, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Peach, NV, American

St. James Winery, Cherry, NV, American

Stateland, Pinot Noir, 2013, Santa Barbara County

Stateland, Pinot Noir, 2012, Reserve, Santa Maria Valley

Stemilt Creek, Boss Lady, 2011, Estate Grown and Produced, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stephen Vincent, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California, Lake County

Stephen Vincent, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California, North Coast

Stonehedge, Meritage, 2014, Napa Valley

Storyteller, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Chardonnay, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, White Merlot, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Chenin Blanc, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pink Moscato Bubbly, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Bubbly Brut, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Optimus, 2012, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Chardonnay, NV, Blue Waters, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Blanc de Blanc, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Vidal Blanc, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Naturel, NV, Finger Lakes

Swizzle, Pomegranate Sangria, NV, California

Swizzle, Blackberry Sangria, NV, California

Terra dOro, Barbera, 2013, Amador County

Terra dOro, Zinfandel Port, NV, Amador County

The Specialyst, Red Blend, 2013, California

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Cayuga Lake

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Malbec, 2013, Cayuga Lake

Trecini, PINOT NOIR, 2013, VICINI VINEYARD, Single Vineyard, California, Russian River Valley

Trecini, SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2014, California, Russian River Valley

Trinity Oaks, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Trueblood, Pinot Noir, 2012, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Twirl, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Van Roekel Estate, Grenache, 2011, Estate Grown & Bottled, Temecula Valley

Van Roekel Estate, Zinfandel, 2012, Maurice Carrie Vineyard, Estate Grown & Bottled, Temecula Valley

Viansa Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sonoma Valley

Viansa Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma Valley

Vino Noceto, Rosso, NV, Amador County, Sierra Foothills

Vintners Path, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2012, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Shiraz, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Whiplash, Zinfandel, 2013, California, Lodi

Whispering Oaks Winery, Blueberry Dry, 2015, Florida

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, Russian River Valley

Wine Sisterhood, Courageous Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, California (State Appellation)

ZD, Chardonnay, 2013, Carneros

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 15k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

The Winners of the 2018 Global Wine Awards, Nine Judges (including yours truly) Select Best in Show and Highest Awards Winners

by

Las Vegas, Nev.​ – ​The inaugural 2018 Global Wine Awards was hosted​ ​June 18- 20​ ​at the Tropicana Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.​ ​ ​The competition featured nine world class judges with a panel of the finest palates including, Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine, wine educators and industry experts.​

Bottom Row: Cami Sisk MS, Chairwoman of the Judges Panel Deborah Parker Wong, Eve Bushman, Stacie Hunt. Top Row: Danny Ronen, Paul Ellis, Cassandra Brown, David Glancy MS, Roger Bohmrich MW

L to R Top Row: Danny Ronen, Paul Ellis, Cassandra Brown, David Glancy MS, Roger Bohmrich MW. L to R Bottom Row: Cami Sisk MS, Chairwoman of the Judges Panel Deborah Parker Wong, Eve Bushman, Stacie Hunt.

The 3-day judging process for the diverse and specific wine categories began with a 100% blind tasting preliminary round, with the best wines advancing to the Sweepstakes Rounds, where the Double Gold and The Best of Show Categories were awarded.

Featured Award Winning Wines:​ (​ For a complete list of all the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners, visi​t​ ​GlobalWineAwards.co​/)

• Overall Best in Show and Best in Show, Red Wine:
o ​Martellotto Wine Productions, 2016 Il Cappocia Riserva (Barrel Aged)

• The Best in Show, White Wine:
o Frank Family Vineyards, Late Harvest Chardonnay​

“​Our expert judges are pleased to announce the 2018 Global Wine Awards winners who all represent excellence in winemaking skills and superior presentation from all around the world. The wines were judged based on varietal expression, uniqueness in character and approachability​” ​said Eddie Rivkin, CEO/Executive Director of Global Wine Awards. ​“​Las Vegas is an entertainment destination known globally for its vibrant wine culture, its fine-dining restaurants and celebrity chefs.​ ​It was the perfect paring to our first annual event.​” ​he said.

Double Gold Winners (Listed by: Winery, Wine Name, Wine Type, Vintage, Score):

  • Martellotto Wine Productions​, Martellotto, Il Capoccia Riserva, 2016, 97
  • Frank Family Vineyards,​ ​Frank Family Vineyards, Late Harvest Chardonnay, NV, 97
  • Wines Of Greece​, VOURVOUKELI ESTATE MALAGOUZIA, Malagouzia, 2017, 97
  • 2Hawk Vineyard & Winery​, 2Hawk Winery, Viognier, 2016, 96
  • Penrose Hill​, Cantharos, Grenache, 2014, 96
  • Cellardoor Winery,​ ​Cellardoor Winery, Petite Sirah, 2013, 96
  • Wines of Greece,​ ​HELEXO WINERY RETSINA White, RETSINA white, 2016, 96The prestigious judges, encompassing years of expertise, passion and credibility in the wine industry, featured:​ ​Deborah Parker Wong​, Global Wine Chairwoman and Editor for SOMM Journal and The Tasting;​ ​David Glancy​, Master Sommelier & CWE, Founder & CEO of San Francisco Wine School, the largest wine school in the USA; ​Cameron Sisk​, Master Sommelier, with thirty-five years in restaurants;​ ​Cassandra M. Brown​, Certified Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and Certified Specialist of Wine from the Society of Wine Educators; ​Stacie Hunt​, Certified Silver Pin Sommelier /North American Sommelier Association and Vice President of the Board of the National Association of Wine Retailers;​ ​Paul R. Ellis​, Sommelier at Rao’s, Caesars Palace;​ ​Eve Bushman​, Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA); ​Roger Bohmrich​, Master of Wine, independent consultant, writer, and educator; and ​D​ä​nny Ronen​, educator in spirit and cocktail development.

    During the awards competition, all the wines, in their respective and specific sub-categories, were sampled together as flights, carefully evaluated in all aspects, and scored by each one of the skilled judges.​ ​All winners received industry acknowledgment and a distinguished medal of recognition.

    The scoring ranges are:​ Bronze ​– ​80-84
    Silver ​– ​85-89
    Gold ​– ​90-95

    Double Gold ​– ​96-100

    About Global Wine Awards & Global Spirits Awards

    Eddie Rivkin CEO/Executive Director of Global Wine Awards and Global Spirits Awards hosts the events from the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information and a complete list of judges bios, photos and winners, visit the website at ​www.GlobalWineAwards.co​. Follow on Instagram at Globalwineawardslv.

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