The Sunset International Wine Competition attracts wines from all over, with great depth in Oregon and Washington; even Arizona and Idaho. This year, the 2018 Gracianna Pinot Noir from Russian River Valley took Best of Show, and the 2019 Brecon Estate Albarino (Central Coast) scored Best White. 2019 Chronic Cellars “Pink Pedals” took best Rosé for their GSM, from Sonoma fruit.

Locally, Dorcich Family Vineyards struck Double Gold for their 2017 Estate Malbec, which was awarded 95 points, the highest score any Santa Clara Valley wine achieved at this competition. Dorcich also scored Gold for their 2017 Dolina, and Silvers for their NV Ankora Bijelo, 2017 Ankora Syrah and 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon.

Guglielmo Winery scored Silvers for their 2019 Estate Grignolino Rose, 2017 Private Reserve Estate Zinfandel and 2018 Central Coast Barbera, while Martin Ranch scored Gold for their 2017 Thérèse Vineyards Malbec from Dos Niñas Vineyard. Silvers went to the 2017 J.D Hurley Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir, as well as to the 2017 Thérèse Vineyards Viognier, 2014 Nebbiolo and 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon. Nicely done!

Verde Vineyards had a good showing with a Gold for their 2017 Verde Vineyards Tess’ Estate Blend, and they hauled in silvers for their 2018 Estate Malbec and Syrah, as well as their 2017 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and their 2019 Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Lucia Highlands.

Congrats to all who entered.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Laura Ness

Laura Ness is an accomplished freelance writer offering travel tips and commentary on the California wine industry.

Latest posts by Laura Ness (see all)

• Kinship Center to hold 65th Wine & Food Tasting – July 27, 2021
• La Vie Dansante reflects on changes – June 18, 2021
• Gold medal dreams come true – April 9, 2021