Award-Winning Estate Tannat Brings International Recognition to the Ramona Valley AVA During its 20th Anniversary Year
June 30, 2026 (Ramona, CA) — Ramona Ranch Winery is proud to announce that its 2022 Estate Tannat has earned an extraordinary 98-point score, along with Double Gold and Best of Class honors at the 2026 Sunset International Wine Competition.
The winery’s 2022 Estate Tannat continues a tradition of award-winning excellence. Earlier this year, Ramona Ranch Winery’s 2020 Estate Tannat was named Best of Class at the 2026 San Diego County Fair Wine Competition, while its 2019 Estate Sangiovese earned Double Gold at a previous Sunset International Wine Competition. Together, these honors reflect the winery’s ongoing commitment to crafting exceptional wines and showcase the remarkable quality of the Ramona Valley AVA.
The winery also received additional recognition at this year’s Sunset International Wine Competition:
- 2022 Estate Montepulciano – Silver Medal
- 2022 Estate Grenache – Bronze Medal
Earning a medal at the Sunset International Wine Competition is no small feat. As one of the nation’s most respected and internationally recognized wine competitions, Sunset showcases exceptional wines from around the world. This year’s competition attracted an outstanding field of entries, with every wine evaluated by an esteemed panel of professional judges selected for their experience, integrity, and discerning palates.
“This recognition is incredibly meaningful,” said co-owner Teri Kerns. “Every bottle represents years of dedication in both the vineyard and the winery. To have our Estate Tannat recognized with 98 points, Double Gold, and Best of Class by such a distinguished panel is both humbling and deeply rewarding.”
Ramona Ranch Winery has been producing wines primarily from Ramona Valley AVA grapes since 2005 and became a bonded winery in 2012. Family-owned and operated by Teri Kerns and Micole Moore, the winery is dedicated to crafting premium wines from locally grown grapes while practicing environmentally responsible viticulture. Today, Ramona Ranch Winery is proud to be the only Certified Sustainable Vineyard and Winery in San Diego County.
The winery planted its first Tannat vineyard in 2010, becoming one of the earliest vineyards in Southern California to embrace this bold French variety.
The recognition also shines a spotlight on the Ramona Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA), which is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in 2026. Established in 2006, the Ramona Valley became San Diego County’s second federally recognized American Viticultural Area, following the San Pasqual Valley AVA. Today, the Ramona Valley is home to more than 40 wineries and vineyards and is recognized for producing exceptional Rhône, Italian, Bordeaux and Mediterranean varietals.
Winemaker Micole Moore has been producing wines from Ramona Valley vineyards since 2005 and is recognized as one of the pioneers of the region’s modern wine industry.
Since opening, Ramona Ranch Winery has earned over one hundred medals in regional, national, and international wine competitions, helping establish both the winery and the Ramona Valley AVA among California’s emerging premium wine regions.
For co-owner Teri Kerns, the recognition is about much more than one award-winning wine.
“Receiving 98 points, Double Gold, and Best of Class is an incredible honor for Ramona Ranch Winery, but I believe it’s also a win for the entire Ramona Valley AVA. As we celebrate the 20th Anniversary of our American Viticultural Area, this recognition demonstrates what so many of us have believed for years—that Ramona is capable of producing world-class wines. We’re proud to be part of a community of passionate growers and winemakers who continue to elevate the reputation of our region. We hope this award encourages more people to discover the exceptional wines, beautiful vineyards, and warm hospitality that make the Ramona Valley such a special place.”
Visitors are invited to experience these award-winning wines at Ramona Ranch Winery’s scenic tasting room overlooking the vineyard.
About Ramona Ranch Winery
Founded by Teri Kerns and Micole Moore, Ramona Ranch Winery is a family-owned vineyard and winery located in the heart of the Ramona Valley AVA in San Diego County, California. Since 2005, the winery has specialized in handcrafted wines made primarily from Ramona Valley AVA grapes, while also supporting other premium locally grown fruit. Established as a bonded winery in 2012, Ramona Ranch Winery is the only Certified Sustainable Vineyard and Winery in San Diego County.
Tasting Room Hours
Monday & Thursday: 1:00–5:00 p.m.
Friday–Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
