PETALUMA, CALIF (May 22, 2023) — The North of the Gate Wine Competition is delighted to unveil the exceptional wines that have been honored in this year’s prestigious event. With an impressive lineup of wineries participating, the competition showcased the finest offerings from the renowned North of the Gate wine region.
The North of the Gate Wine Competition received an overwhelming response from wineries across the region, exemplifying the rich and diverse winemaking traditions of the North of the Gate wine region. The competition’s esteemed judges meticulously evaluated each entry, highlighting the exceptional quality and artistry prevalent in the industry.
The winners of the 2023 North of the Gate Wine Competition represent the epitome of excellence and craftsmanship in the industry. A panel of esteemed judges rigorously evaluated each entry, considering factors such as aroma, taste, complexity, and overall quality.
The competition resulted in a remarkable array of wines, with the following noteworthy achievements:
- Best of Contra Costa County: Carol Shelton Wines’ 2021 Barbera d’Oakley
- Best of Lake County: Stonehouse Cellars’ 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon; Coyote’s Reserve
- Best of Mendocino County: Navarro Vineyards’ 2022 Grüner Veltliner; Anderson Valley
- Best of San Joaquin County: Oak Farms Vineyards’ 2021 Malbec
- Best of Sonoma County: Carol Shelton Wines’ 2020 Wally Zin
- Best of Tehama County: Raging Bull Vineyards’ 2021 Malbec
Carol Shelton Wines emerged as a prominent winner, receiving a total of 21 awards. Their 2021 Coquille Rouge achieved extraordinary success, winning 4 awards, including 5 Best in Class, 5 Double Golds, 2 Golds, 4 Silvers, and the prestigious title of Winemaker of the Fair.
Navarro Vineyards also distinguished themselves with an impressive performance, earning a total of 19 awards. Their 2022 Grüner Veltliner; Anderson Valley proved to be a standout, securing 5 accolades, including the highly coveted Best of Show award demonstrating its exceptional quality and captivating character.
Carol Shelton Wines’ 2021 Coquille Rouge was awarded Best of Show in the red wine category, while Navarro Vineyards’ 2022 Grüner Veltliner; Anderson Valley claimed the Best of Show title for white wines. Best of Show Rose was awarded to Pennyroyal Farm’s 2022 Pinot Noir Rosé. Navarro Vineyards’ 2022 Riesling Cluster Select Late Harvest was awarded Best of Show Dessert and McFadden’s Sparkling Cuvee Brut Rose won Best of Show Sparkling.
“Congratulations to all the winners of the 2023 North of the Gate Wine Competition,” said Tawny Tesconi, CEO Sonoma-Marin Fair which coordinates the competition. “These exceptional wineries have demonstrated their dedication to producing outstanding wines that truly embody the spirit and character of our region. We applaud their commitment to excellence and their contributions to the vibrant and thriving wine industry in North of the Gate.”
Wine tasting of the top medal winners will be available during the Sonoma-Marin Fair in the beautifully landscaped Wine Garden. Fairgoers can enjoy sips of wine Wednesday, June 21 from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.; Thursday – Saturday, June 22 – June 24 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and on Sunday, June 25 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. More information can be found on the Sonoma-Marin Fair website. https://www.sonoma-marinfair.org
ABOUT THE SONOMA-MARIN FAIR
Enjoy five fun-filled days of FREE concerts, unlimited carnival rides, the World’s Ugliest Dog contest, action-packed Pit Stop USA Sprint Car Racing, fun games & contests, delicious fair food, and more. For details, visit Sonoma-marinfair.org or call (707) 283-3247. Be the first to know about the fun by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We’ll see you at the Fair!
