GEYSERVILLE, Calif. (February 14, 2023) – Alexander Valley Winegrowers is pleased to announce that the 23rd Annual Pruning Contest will take place on February 21, 2023 at Vimark Vineyards in Geyserville. Industry and community leaders are invited to attend to support the participants. The contest will be followed by a casual lunch in the vineyards in Alexander Valley.
Originally created as a competition between the different appellations in Sonoma County in 1999, Alexander Valley Winegrowers has continued the tradition for 23 years (missing only 2021 due to the pandemic) and is the only appellation with its own regional pruning contest.
“We want to highlight the professional skills and hard work of the people working out in the vineyards. They are the reason that we can produce amazing fruit. They are a valuable part of this industry.” explains Mark Houser, retired Vineyard Manager at Alexander Valley Vineyards, and past President of the Alexander Valley Winegrowers.
Mark joined the board of the Alexander Valley Winegrowers in 1999 and became involved in the pruning contest shortly after it was created. He has since single-handedly kept the contest alive.
Participation in this event increases every year and this year we’re expecting 25+ pruners due to the fact we have the largest prize money to date! Registration is now open for pruning contestants and all members of the Alexander Valley Winegrowers are encouraged to enter their pruners into the contest.
The growing number of contestants contributes to the momentum of the event, but it is really the donors and sponsors who have allowed this tradition to thrive. Each year Alexander Valley wineries, winegrowers, and community partners donate logoed gear and cash prizes for the participants. All participants walk away with swag, but only the top 6 winners are rewarded substantial prize money. For the past two years, however, we have made it a priority to reward even small cash prizes to all participants. This year, first place can bring anywhere from $650-$800!
The contest is followed by awards and a lunch at Vimark Vineyards. For more details, please visit https://alexandervalley.org/member-resources/annual-pruning-contest/
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About Alexander Valley Winegrowers
Alexander Valley Winegrowers is a community of winegrowers and winemakers sharing generations of family, history, and traditions dedicated to world-class winegrowing in the Alexander Valley. Alexander Valley Winegrowers is committed to promoting, protecting, and creating awareness of the premium quality wine grapes grown and wines produced in the Alexander Valley Appellation. Founded in 1984, Alexander Valley Winegrowers represents 31 wineries, 75 winegrowers, and 18 community partners. To learn more about the Alexander Valley Winegrowers, visit: AlexanderValley.org
