Local Wineries Make History At First Ever Sonoma Valley Wine Compettion
More than 45 Wineries Take Part in Inaugural Wine Judging Held May 11th at The Lodge at Sonoma
May 15, 2009
Sonoma, CA (May 13, 2009) Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance Executive Director, Grant Raeside, has announced the winners of the first ever Sonoma Valley Wine Competition, held May 11th at the Lodge at Sonoma. Monday's "Spring Tasting" was the first in a series of quarterly wine competitions designed to showcase the quality of wines made from Sonoma Valley grapes and to promote the seasonal release of new wines. Local wine writer and sommelier Christopher Sawyer oversaw the judging, which included 46 wineries competing for awards in categories ranging from varietal type and vineyard location to price point and selling venue. Wineries receiving top honors at the inaugural Sonoma Valley Wine Competition include: Nicholson Ranch, Muscardini Cellars, Tin Barn Vineyards, and Audelssa Estate Winery.
Raeside made the announcement saying, "This competition represents a win-win for our Sonoma Valley wineries and growers as well as the press and consumers. It provides a forum for large and small wineries alike to present their best efforts regardless of volume or distribution and unlike a once a year competition, this quarterly event will provide more potential exposure for Sonoma Valley grapes and wines to professional wine judges, media and consumers."
The Sonoma Valley Wine Competition is open to all SVVGA members as well as non member wineries whose wines are comprised of at least 75% of grapes sourced from vineyards belonging to SVVGA members located in the four sub-regions of Sonoma Valley: Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Mountain, Bennett Valley and the Sonoma County portion of Carneros. For a full list of participating wineries, visit www.sonomavalleywine.com.
Sonoma Valley Wine Competition "Spring Tasting" Results:
Best of Class:
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 -- $49
BOC: Clarbec 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
BOC: Arrowood Vineyards and Winery 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2004
BOC: Arrowood Vineyards and Winery 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, Réserve Spéciale, Sonoma Valley
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15 - $29.99
BOC: Gloria Ferrer Caves and Vineyards 2006 Merlot, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $15-$29.99
BOC: Larson Family Winery 2007 Pinot Noir, Estate, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $30 and up
BOC: Tin Barn Vineyards 2007 Pinot Noir, Ricci Vineyards, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
BOC: Kunde Family Estate 2006 Syrah, Estate, Sonoma Valley
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price $30 and up
BOC: 2006 Nicholson Ranch Syrah, Las Madres, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2005 or earlier
BOC: Mulas Family Vineyards 2004 Syrah, Alta Vista Vineyard, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price $30 and up
TIE
BOC: Nicholson Ranch 2007 Chardonnay, Estate, Sonoma Valley
BOC: Robledo Family Winery 2006 Chardonnay, Rancho Maria Vineyard, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2005, retail price, $15 and up
BOC: Kunde Family Estate 2005 Chardonnay, Reserve, Sonoma Valley
Category: Chardonnay, Non Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15 and up
BOC: Roche Carneros Estate Winery 2007 Chardonnay, Estate, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio
BOC: Clarbec 2007 Pinot Gris, Sonoma County
Category: Rosé
BOC: Muscardini Cellars 2008 Rosato di Sangiovese, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL WINNERS
The following listings follow this format:
Category
Winery Name
Vintage
Grape Variety/Blend
Label Description
Appellation
Award
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Arrowood Vineyards & Winery
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Monte Rosso
Sonoma Valley
DOUBLE GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2006
Syrah
Las Madres
Sonoma Carneros
DOUBLE GOLD
Category: Chardonnay, Non-Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007 , retail price, $15 and up
Roche Carneros Estate Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Estate
Sonoma Carneros
DOUBLE GOLD
GOLD MEDAL WINNERS
Category
Winery Name
Vintage
Grape Variety/Blend
Label Description
Appellation
Award
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2004
Arrowood Vineyards & Winery
2004
Cabernet Sauvignon
Reserve Special
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Atmosphere Wines
2006
Syrah
Parmelee-Hill Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30-$49.99
Audelssa Estate Winery
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Mountain Terraces and Warm Springs Vineyards
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $50 and up
Audelssa Estate Winery
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Mountain Terrace Estate
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Rose (Varietal not listed)
Benziger Family Winery
2008
Grenache
Dragonsleaf Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio
Clarbec
2007
Pinot Gris
Sonoma County
GOLD
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30-$49.99
Clarbec
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2006
Merlot
Sonoma Carneros
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Kunde Family Estate
2006
Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2005, retail price, $15 and up
Kunde Family Estate
2005
Chardonnay
Reserve
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $15 - $29.99
Larson Family Winery
2007
Pinot Noir
Estate
Sonoma Carneros
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Mulas Family Vineyards
2004
Syrah
Alta Vista Vineyard
Sonoma Carneros
GOLD
Category: Rose, Sangiovese
Muscardini Cellars
2008
Sangiovese
Monte Rosso
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2006
Syrah
Bennett Valley
GOLD
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2007
Chardonnay
Estate
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Robledo Family Winery
2006
Chardonnay
Rancho Maria
Sonoma Carneros
GOLD
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $50 and up
Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cherryblock
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Sojourn Cellars
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Reserve, Mountain Terraces Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Tin Barn Vineyards
2007
Pinot Noir
Ricci Vineyard
Sonoma Carneros
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Wellington Vineyards
2005
Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Westwood Winery
2005
Syrah
Annadel Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
SILVER MEDAL WINNERS
Category
Winery Name
Vintage
Grape Variety/Blend
Label Description
Appellation
Award
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Anaba Wines
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma Coast
SILVER
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Arrowood Vineyards & Winery
2004
Syrah
Le Beau Melange
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Rose, Rhone Style
Arrowood Vineyards & Winery
2008
41% Mouvedre, 31% Syrah, 28%
La Rose
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $50 and up
B.R. Cohn Winery
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Olive Hill Estate Vineyards
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
B.R. Cohn Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma County
SILVER
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Bartholomew Park Winery
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Kasper Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Bartholomew Park Winery
2006
Merlot
Desnudos Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Bartholomew Park Winery
2006
Syrah
Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Benziger Family Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Sangiacomo Vineyard
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2005, retail price, $0-$29.99
Charles Creek Vineyards
2005
Merlot
Pasatiempo Merlot, Sangiacomo Vineyards
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Tocai Friulano
David Noyes Wines
2008
Tocai Friulano
Pagani Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Deerfield Ranch Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Los Chamizal Vineyard
Sonoma County
SILVER
Category: Rose, Pinot Noir
Fichtenberg Vineyards
2008
Pinot Noir Saignee Blush
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Rose, Rhone Style
GlenLyon Vineyards & Winery
2008
Blush of the Boar - Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2004
Pinot Noir
Jose S. Ferrer, Reserve
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2004
Pinot Noir
Rust Rock Terrace
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Gundlach Bundschu Winery
2006
Merlot
Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2006 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Gundlach Bundschu Winery
2006
Pinot Noir
Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Gundlach Bundschu Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2004
Imagery Estate Winery
2004
Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunny Slope
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2004
Imagery Estate Winery
2004
Merlot
Sunny Slope
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Kunde Family Estate
2006
Merlot
Clone 2
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Kunde Family Estate
2007
Chardonnay
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Non-Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2006 and earlier
Larson Family Winery
2006
Chardonnay
Late Harvest
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Ledson Winery & Vineyards
2005
Merlot
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Little Vineyards Family Winery
2006
Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Loxton Cellars
2005
Syrah
Reserve
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
MacLeod Family Vineyard
2006
85% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc,
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
MacRostie Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Matanzas Creek Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Moon Mountain Vineyard
2005
Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2007
Pinot Noir
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2007
Chardonnay
Durell Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Robledo Family Winery
2006
Merlot
Rancho Emiliano
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $15 - $29.99
Roche Carneros Estate Winery
2007
Pinot Noir
Estate
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2006 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Roche Carneros Estate Winery
2006
Pinot Noir
Estate Reserve
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Roessler Cellars
2007
Chardonnay
Big Bend Estate
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2005, retail price, $15 and up
Sand Hill Wines
2007
Chardonnay
Durell Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Sojourn Cellars
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2005, retail price, $0-$29.99
Spann Vineyards
2005
Merlot
75% Sonoma Valley
Sonoma County
SILVER
Category: Rose, Rhone Style
Ty Caton Vineyards
2008
Rose
Caton Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Westwood Winery
2005
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
BRONZE MEDAL WINNERS
Category
Winery Name
Vintage
Grape Variety/Blend
Label Description
Appellation
Award
Category: Rose, Pinot Noir
Atmosphere Wines
2008
Pinot Noir Rose
Trackside Vineyard
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Audelssa Estate Winery
2008
Syrah
Maelstrom - Estate
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Audelssa Estate Winery
2006
Syrah
Tempest - Estate
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
B.R. Cohn Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Reserve
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Benziger Family Winery
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Stone Farm Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Benziger Family Winery
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Gordenker Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Bonneau Wines
2007
Catherine's Vineyard
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Clarbec
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Glen Oaks Ranch
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2004
Fichtenburg Vineyards
2004
Merlot
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2006 or later, retail price, $0-$29.99
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2006
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2005
Syrah
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Rose, Rhone Style
Hughes Family Vineyards
2008
Syrah
Savannah Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Kenwood Vineyards
2006
Merlot
Jack London Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Kenwood Vineyards
2006
Syrah
Jack London Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15 - $29.99
Kunde Family Estate
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Estate
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Larson Family Winery
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Estate
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Chardonnay, Non-Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2006 and earlier
Larson Family Winery
2006
Chardonnay
Estate
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2005, retail price, $0-$29.99
Larson Family Winery
2005
Merlot
Millerick Road
Sonoma County
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Laurel Glen
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Laurel Glen
Sonoma Mountain
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Ledson Winery & Vineyards
2005
Syrah
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30-$49.99
Little Vineyards Family Winery
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Estate
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $30 and up
MacRostie Winery
2007
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2006 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2006
Pinot Noir
Estate, Reserve, Cactus Hill
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2006 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Robledo Family Winery
2006
Pinot Noir
Rancho Rincon
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Roche Carneros Estate Winery
2006
Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2005, retail price, $15 and up
Sand Hill Wines
2005
Chardonnay
Durell Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Sand Hill Wines
2004
Pinot Noir
Durell Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Schug Carneros Estate
2006
Merlot
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $15 - $29.99
Schug Carneros Estate
2007
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Spann Vineyards
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Mayacamas Range
Sonoma County
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30-$49.99
Ty Caton Vineyards
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Caton Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Ty Caton Vineyards
2006
Merlot
Upperbench, Caton Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Rose, Rhone Style
Westwood Winery
2007
Rose
Annadel Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Westwood Winery
2004
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Westwood Winery
2004
Pinot Noir
Nicholson Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Best White Wine
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price $30 and up
Sweepstakes Winner: Nicholson Ranch 2007 Chardonnay, Estate, Sonoma Valley
Best Red Wine
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price $30 and up
Sweepstakes Winner: Nicholson Ranch 2006 Syrah, Las Madres Vineyard, Sonoma Carneros
Best Rosé Wine
Category: Rosé, Sangiovese
Sweepstakes Winner: Muscardini Cellars 2008 Rosato di Sangiovese, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
Best Valley Floor Red Wine
Tin Barn Vineyards 2007 Pinot Noir, Ricci Vineyards, Sonoma Carneros
Best Valley Floor White Wine
Roche Carneros Estate Winery 2007 Chardonnay, Estate, Sonoma Carneros
Best Hillside Selection
Audelssa Estate Winery 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mountain Terraces Estate, Sonoma Valley
Best Vineyard Designate Wines
White $14.99 and under
Clarbec 2007 Pinot Gris, Clarbec Vineyard & Lila Lane Vineyard, Sonoma County
White $15.00 and up
Kunde Family Estate 2005 Chardonnay, Reserve, Kinneybrook Vineyard Block 24 & Estate Vineyards, Sonoma Valley
White $30.00 and up
Robledo Family Winery 2006 Chardonnay, Rancho Maria Vineyard, Sonoma Carneros
Red $15.00 and up
Atmosphere Wines 2006 Syrah, Parmelee-Hill Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
Red $30.00 and up
Sojourn Cellars 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve, Mountain Terrace Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
Rosé $15.00 - $29.99
Muscardini Cellars 2008 Rosato di Sangiovese, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
Sonoma Valley Wine Competition Judges:
Margo Van Staaveren, Winemaker, Chateau St. Jean
Mike Short, Wine Buyer, Sonoma Market & Glen Ellen Market
Greg Walter, Editor/Proprietor, Pinot Report
Debbie Zachareas, Sommelier/Wine Director, Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant
Ziggy Eschliman, National Radio Personality/Writer
Jeff Cox, author and monthly contributor to The Press Democrat & Wine News
Greg Silvi, Gourmet Magazine
Cyril Penn, Editor, Wine Business Monthly
Deborah Grossman, Journalist, Wine Enthusiast & Napa/Sonoma Magazines
Christopher Sawyer, Sommelier, Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar
Traci Dutton, Beverage Manager/Sommelier, Culinary Institute of America, Greystone
Gillian Balance, Sommelier, Carneros Inn & Plumpjack Group
Erich Bradley, Winemaker, Audelssa Estate Winery & Sojourn Wines
Eric Henson, Sommelier, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
Kimberly Charles, Charles Communications
Kathleen Hill, Journalist, Sonoma Index Tribune
About SVVGA Annual Events
Each year, the Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance partners with local wineries, growers, restaurants and hospitality providers to produce four signature events designed to raise awareness and appreciation for the beauty and bounty of Sonoma Valley. The events include: Passport to Sonoma Valley, May 16th -17th; Sonoma Wine Country Weekend, September 4th -6th (Labor Day Weekend); Holiday in the Vines, November 27 -- December 31, 2009 and VINOLIVO, February 12, 2010. For more on these events, visit www.sonomavalleywine.com or call 707-935-0803.
About SVVGA
The Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance (SVVGA) is a non-profit trade organization serving over 500 vintners, growers and associates who share a mission to promote awareness of Sonoma Valley's grapes, wine, terroir and history as the birthplace of the California wine industry. The Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Foundation (SVVGF) is a non-profit organization that has raised over $8,000,000 for local Sonoma Valley charities through Sonoma Valley Wine Country Weekend. To learn more about the SVVGA and SVVGF, visit www.sonomavalleywine.com or call 707-935-0803.
Raeside made the announcement saying, "This competition represents a win-win for our Sonoma Valley wineries and growers as well as the press and consumers. It provides a forum for large and small wineries alike to present their best efforts regardless of volume or distribution and unlike a once a year competition, this quarterly event will provide more potential exposure for Sonoma Valley grapes and wines to professional wine judges, media and consumers."
The Sonoma Valley Wine Competition is open to all SVVGA members as well as non member wineries whose wines are comprised of at least 75% of grapes sourced from vineyards belonging to SVVGA members located in the four sub-regions of Sonoma Valley: Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Mountain, Bennett Valley and the Sonoma County portion of Carneros. For a full list of participating wineries, visit www.sonomavalleywine.com.
Sonoma Valley Wine Competition "Spring Tasting" Results:
Best of Class:
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 -- $49
BOC: Clarbec 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
BOC: Arrowood Vineyards and Winery 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2004
BOC: Arrowood Vineyards and Winery 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, Réserve Spéciale, Sonoma Valley
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15 - $29.99
BOC: Gloria Ferrer Caves and Vineyards 2006 Merlot, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $15-$29.99
BOC: Larson Family Winery 2007 Pinot Noir, Estate, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $30 and up
BOC: Tin Barn Vineyards 2007 Pinot Noir, Ricci Vineyards, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
BOC: Kunde Family Estate 2006 Syrah, Estate, Sonoma Valley
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price $30 and up
BOC: 2006 Nicholson Ranch Syrah, Las Madres, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2005 or earlier
BOC: Mulas Family Vineyards 2004 Syrah, Alta Vista Vineyard, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price $30 and up
TIE
BOC: Nicholson Ranch 2007 Chardonnay, Estate, Sonoma Valley
BOC: Robledo Family Winery 2006 Chardonnay, Rancho Maria Vineyard, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2005, retail price, $15 and up
BOC: Kunde Family Estate 2005 Chardonnay, Reserve, Sonoma Valley
Category: Chardonnay, Non Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15 and up
BOC: Roche Carneros Estate Winery 2007 Chardonnay, Estate, Sonoma Carneros
Category: Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio
BOC: Clarbec 2007 Pinot Gris, Sonoma County
Category: Rosé
BOC: Muscardini Cellars 2008 Rosato di Sangiovese, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL WINNERS
The following listings follow this format:
Category
Winery Name
Vintage
Grape Variety/Blend
Label Description
Appellation
Award
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Arrowood Vineyards & Winery
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Monte Rosso
Sonoma Valley
DOUBLE GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2006
Syrah
Las Madres
Sonoma Carneros
DOUBLE GOLD
Category: Chardonnay, Non-Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007 , retail price, $15 and up
Roche Carneros Estate Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Estate
Sonoma Carneros
DOUBLE GOLD
GOLD MEDAL WINNERS
Category
Winery Name
Vintage
Grape Variety/Blend
Label Description
Appellation
Award
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2004
Arrowood Vineyards & Winery
2004
Cabernet Sauvignon
Reserve Special
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Atmosphere Wines
2006
Syrah
Parmelee-Hill Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30-$49.99
Audelssa Estate Winery
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Mountain Terraces and Warm Springs Vineyards
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $50 and up
Audelssa Estate Winery
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Mountain Terrace Estate
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Rose (Varietal not listed)
Benziger Family Winery
2008
Grenache
Dragonsleaf Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio
Clarbec
2007
Pinot Gris
Sonoma County
GOLD
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30-$49.99
Clarbec
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2006
Merlot
Sonoma Carneros
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Kunde Family Estate
2006
Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2005, retail price, $15 and up
Kunde Family Estate
2005
Chardonnay
Reserve
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $15 - $29.99
Larson Family Winery
2007
Pinot Noir
Estate
Sonoma Carneros
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Mulas Family Vineyards
2004
Syrah
Alta Vista Vineyard
Sonoma Carneros
GOLD
Category: Rose, Sangiovese
Muscardini Cellars
2008
Sangiovese
Monte Rosso
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2006
Syrah
Bennett Valley
GOLD
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2007
Chardonnay
Estate
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Robledo Family Winery
2006
Chardonnay
Rancho Maria
Sonoma Carneros
GOLD
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $50 and up
Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cherryblock
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Sojourn Cellars
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Reserve, Mountain Terraces Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Tin Barn Vineyards
2007
Pinot Noir
Ricci Vineyard
Sonoma Carneros
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Wellington Vineyards
2005
Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Westwood Winery
2005
Syrah
Annadel Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
GOLD
SILVER MEDAL WINNERS
Category
Winery Name
Vintage
Grape Variety/Blend
Label Description
Appellation
Award
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Anaba Wines
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma Coast
SILVER
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Arrowood Vineyards & Winery
2004
Syrah
Le Beau Melange
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Rose, Rhone Style
Arrowood Vineyards & Winery
2008
41% Mouvedre, 31% Syrah, 28%
La Rose
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $50 and up
B.R. Cohn Winery
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Olive Hill Estate Vineyards
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
B.R. Cohn Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma County
SILVER
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Bartholomew Park Winery
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Kasper Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Bartholomew Park Winery
2006
Merlot
Desnudos Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Bartholomew Park Winery
2006
Syrah
Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Benziger Family Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Sangiacomo Vineyard
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2005, retail price, $0-$29.99
Charles Creek Vineyards
2005
Merlot
Pasatiempo Merlot, Sangiacomo Vineyards
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Tocai Friulano
David Noyes Wines
2008
Tocai Friulano
Pagani Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Deerfield Ranch Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Los Chamizal Vineyard
Sonoma County
SILVER
Category: Rose, Pinot Noir
Fichtenberg Vineyards
2008
Pinot Noir Saignee Blush
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Rose, Rhone Style
GlenLyon Vineyards & Winery
2008
Blush of the Boar - Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2004
Pinot Noir
Jose S. Ferrer, Reserve
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2004
Pinot Noir
Rust Rock Terrace
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Gundlach Bundschu Winery
2006
Merlot
Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2006 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Gundlach Bundschu Winery
2006
Pinot Noir
Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Gundlach Bundschu Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2004
Imagery Estate Winery
2004
Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunny Slope
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2004
Imagery Estate Winery
2004
Merlot
Sunny Slope
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Kunde Family Estate
2006
Merlot
Clone 2
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Kunde Family Estate
2007
Chardonnay
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Non-Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2006 and earlier
Larson Family Winery
2006
Chardonnay
Late Harvest
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Ledson Winery & Vineyards
2005
Merlot
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Little Vineyards Family Winery
2006
Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Loxton Cellars
2005
Syrah
Reserve
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
MacLeod Family Vineyard
2006
85% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc,
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
MacRostie Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Matanzas Creek Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Moon Mountain Vineyard
2005
Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2007
Pinot Noir
Estate
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2007
Chardonnay
Durell Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Robledo Family Winery
2006
Merlot
Rancho Emiliano
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $15 - $29.99
Roche Carneros Estate Winery
2007
Pinot Noir
Estate
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2006 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Roche Carneros Estate Winery
2006
Pinot Noir
Estate Reserve
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
Roessler Cellars
2007
Chardonnay
Big Bend Estate
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2005, retail price, $15 and up
Sand Hill Wines
2007
Chardonnay
Durell Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma Carneros
SILVER
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Sojourn Cellars
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2005, retail price, $0-$29.99
Spann Vineyards
2005
Merlot
75% Sonoma Valley
Sonoma County
SILVER
Category: Rose, Rhone Style
Ty Caton Vineyards
2008
Rose
Caton Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Westwood Winery
2005
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Valley
SILVER
BRONZE MEDAL WINNERS
Category
Winery Name
Vintage
Grape Variety/Blend
Label Description
Appellation
Award
Category: Rose, Pinot Noir
Atmosphere Wines
2008
Pinot Noir Rose
Trackside Vineyard
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Audelssa Estate Winery
2008
Syrah
Maelstrom - Estate
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Audelssa Estate Winery
2006
Syrah
Tempest - Estate
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $30 and up
B.R. Cohn Winery
2007
Chardonnay
Reserve
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Benziger Family Winery
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Stone Farm Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Benziger Family Winery
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Gordenker Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Bonneau Wines
2007
Catherine's Vineyard
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Clarbec
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Glen Oaks Ranch
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2004
Fichtenburg Vineyards
2004
Merlot
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price, $15-$29.99
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2007
Chardonnay
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2006 or later, retail price, $0-$29.99
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2006
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
2005
Syrah
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Rose, Rhone Style
Hughes Family Vineyards
2008
Syrah
Savannah Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Kenwood Vineyards
2006
Merlot
Jack London Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Kenwood Vineyards
2006
Syrah
Jack London Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15 - $29.99
Kunde Family Estate
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Estate
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Larson Family Winery
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Estate
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Chardonnay, Non-Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2006 and earlier
Larson Family Winery
2006
Chardonnay
Estate
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2005, retail price, $0-$29.99
Larson Family Winery
2005
Merlot
Millerick Road
Sonoma County
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Laurel Glen
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Laurel Glen
Sonoma Mountain
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Ledson Winery & Vineyards
2005
Syrah
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30-$49.99
Little Vineyards Family Winery
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Estate
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $30 and up
MacRostie Winery
2007
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2006 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Nicholson Ranch
2006
Pinot Noir
Estate, Reserve, Cactus Hill
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2006 or later, retail price, $30 and up
Robledo Family Winery
2006
Pinot Noir
Rancho Rincon
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Roche Carneros Estate Winery
2006
Syrah
Estate
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2005, retail price, $15 and up
Sand Hill Wines
2005
Chardonnay
Durell Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Sand Hill Wines
2004
Pinot Noir
Durell Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $15-$29.99
Schug Carneros Estate
2006
Merlot
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2007 or later, retail price, $15 - $29.99
Schug Carneros Estate
2007
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2005, retail price, $30 and up
Spann Vineyards
2005
Cabernet Sauvignon
Mayacamas Range
Sonoma County
BRONZE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30-$49.99
Ty Caton Vineyards
2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
Caton Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Merlot, Vintage 2006, retail price, $30 and up
Ty Caton Vineyards
2006
Merlot
Upperbench, Caton Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Rose, Rhone Style
Westwood Winery
2007
Rose
Annadel Estate Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Westwood Winery
2004
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Carneros
BRONZE
Category: Pinot Noir, Vintage 2004 or earlier
Westwood Winery
2004
Pinot Noir
Nicholson Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma Valley
BRONZE
Best White Wine
Category: Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Vintage 2007, retail price $30 and up
Sweepstakes Winner: Nicholson Ranch 2007 Chardonnay, Estate, Sonoma Valley
Best Red Wine
Category: Syrah, Vintage 2006, retail price $30 and up
Sweepstakes Winner: Nicholson Ranch 2006 Syrah, Las Madres Vineyard, Sonoma Carneros
Best Rosé Wine
Category: Rosé, Sangiovese
Sweepstakes Winner: Muscardini Cellars 2008 Rosato di Sangiovese, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
Best Valley Floor Red Wine
Tin Barn Vineyards 2007 Pinot Noir, Ricci Vineyards, Sonoma Carneros
Best Valley Floor White Wine
Roche Carneros Estate Winery 2007 Chardonnay, Estate, Sonoma Carneros
Best Hillside Selection
Audelssa Estate Winery 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mountain Terraces Estate, Sonoma Valley
Best Vineyard Designate Wines
White $14.99 and under
Clarbec 2007 Pinot Gris, Clarbec Vineyard & Lila Lane Vineyard, Sonoma County
White $15.00 and up
Kunde Family Estate 2005 Chardonnay, Reserve, Kinneybrook Vineyard Block 24 & Estate Vineyards, Sonoma Valley
White $30.00 and up
Robledo Family Winery 2006 Chardonnay, Rancho Maria Vineyard, Sonoma Carneros
Red $15.00 and up
Atmosphere Wines 2006 Syrah, Parmelee-Hill Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
Red $30.00 and up
Sojourn Cellars 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve, Mountain Terrace Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
Rosé $15.00 - $29.99
Muscardini Cellars 2008 Rosato di Sangiovese, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley
Sonoma Valley Wine Competition Judges:
Margo Van Staaveren, Winemaker, Chateau St. Jean
Mike Short, Wine Buyer, Sonoma Market & Glen Ellen Market
Greg Walter, Editor/Proprietor, Pinot Report
Debbie Zachareas, Sommelier/Wine Director, Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant
Ziggy Eschliman, National Radio Personality/Writer
Jeff Cox, author and monthly contributor to The Press Democrat & Wine News
Greg Silvi, Gourmet Magazine
Cyril Penn, Editor, Wine Business Monthly
Deborah Grossman, Journalist, Wine Enthusiast & Napa/Sonoma Magazines
Christopher Sawyer, Sommelier, Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar
Traci Dutton, Beverage Manager/Sommelier, Culinary Institute of America, Greystone
Gillian Balance, Sommelier, Carneros Inn & Plumpjack Group
Erich Bradley, Winemaker, Audelssa Estate Winery & Sojourn Wines
Eric Henson, Sommelier, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
Kimberly Charles, Charles Communications
Kathleen Hill, Journalist, Sonoma Index Tribune
About SVVGA Annual Events
Each year, the Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance partners with local wineries, growers, restaurants and hospitality providers to produce four signature events designed to raise awareness and appreciation for the beauty and bounty of Sonoma Valley. The events include: Passport to Sonoma Valley, May 16th -17th; Sonoma Wine Country Weekend, September 4th -6th (Labor Day Weekend); Holiday in the Vines, November 27 -- December 31, 2009 and VINOLIVO, February 12, 2010. For more on these events, visit www.sonomavalleywine.com or call 707-935-0803.
About SVVGA
The Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance (SVVGA) is a non-profit trade organization serving over 500 vintners, growers and associates who share a mission to promote awareness of Sonoma Valley's grapes, wine, terroir and history as the birthplace of the California wine industry. The Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Foundation (SVVGF) is a non-profit organization that has raised over $8,000,000 for local Sonoma Valley charities through Sonoma Valley Wine Country Weekend. To learn more about the SVVGA and SVVGF, visit www.sonomavalleywine.com or call 707-935-0803.
