Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/670021
udging for the 2016 "East Meets West" Wine Challenge took place February 16 and 17 in Sonoma County, California. Wine Com- petitions Management & Production along with its sponsor, Vineyard & Winery Management, are pleased to announce another successful event with a total of nearly 1,300 wines, more than 200 entries more than last year's competition. Since 1982, the West Coast Wine Competi- tion has annually recognized wines produced and bottled in the West. The International Eastern Wine Competition, launched in 1975, is one of the oldest and longest running wine competi- tions in the nation. This year, both competitions ran concurrently, and the Best of Show wines from each compet- ed head-to-head. Traditional awards were given in each division. This format afforded each entrant two chances to win; one in its own competition and one in the taste-off for wines advancing to the top level. A Riesling Championship was also held for the entrants in the East Coast division. According to Director of Wine Competi- tions and Chief Judge Debra Del Fiorentino, "The diverse and professional group of judges was once again delighted with the 'East Meets West' taste-off. In addition, they were extreme- ly impressed with the wines that made it to the top. 'East Meets West' puts an exciting spin on the challenge, while keeping the competition fresh and enticing making the competition that of blue ribbon caliber." The International Eastern division garnered 24 Best of Class, 19 Double Gold and 72 Gold med- als. The West Coast division collected 20 Best of Class, 10 Double Gold and 60 Gold medals. You can find a list of all the winning wines at www. winecompetitions.com. Scene at: + Best of Show: Frank Family Vineyards 2013 Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, Carneros + Best Sparkling: Gloria Ferrer 2007 Royal Cuvée, Carneros + Best White: St. James Winery 2014 Vignoles, Ozark Highlands + Best Rosé: Blakeslee Vineyard Estate 2014 Estate Rosé of Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains, Oregon + Best Red: Frank Family Vineyards 2013 Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, Carneros + Best Cider: CK Cellars, Wort Hog Cidery 2014 Porky's Pleasure Hard Cherry Cider, Finger Lakes, New York + Best Riesling: Wagner Vineyards, 2013 Riesling Select, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes, New York TOP EAST MEETS WEST AWARDS The 2016 International "East Meets West" Wine Challenge Frank Family Vineyards 2013 Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, Carneros, Wins Overall Best Wine The I n t e r na ti ona l W i n e C h a ll e ng e 1. 9 2