2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Sauvignon Blanc 2020 by Newport Vineyards, RI – The microclimate at Newport Vineyards is influenced by both the Gulf Stream and Narragansett Bay which provide thermal heat and protect against frost. The long, cool growing season is especially apparent in this crisp, clean Sauvignon Blanc. Herbal and citrus notes make this wine a perfect companion to oysters, scallops, shrimp, ham, veal and cheeses.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

 Seyval Blanc 2019 by Romano Winery & Vineyard, MD – In Maryland, 2019 was particularly dry and sunny, beneficial to the seyval blanc hybrid.  With a flavor profile generally considered to lie somewhere between sauvignon blanc and chardonnay, Romano has chosen to vinify this wine in a semi-dry style, highlighting dried apricot and honey with notes of melon. A nice companion to  light, spicier dishes of chicken or shrimp and very good with Havarti, Edam, or Swiss cheeses.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Notte Di Amore 2019 by Paradise Hills Vineyard, CT – The Ruggiero family grew grapes for 15 years before opening their own winery. Notte di Amore is their interpretation of Italian Prosecco. Light, bubbly, slightly sweet with apple and fresh pear notes, the wine can be enjoyed on its own as an aperitivo, and is especially good with crispy calamari.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Brut 2017 by Dr. Konstantin Frank, NY – Konstantin Frank medals once again! Widely acknowledged as the man who changed the course of New York’s wine industry, Dr. Frank’s winery produced this 50% Chardonnay, 45% Pinot Noir, and 5% Pinot Meunier blend from estate vineyards. Cellar aged for three years, a creamy mouthfeel from the fine mousse leads into baked apple flavors that mingle with lemon curd and biscuit notes.

2021 BEST OF SHOW/GOLD MEDAL WINNER

Riesling 2019 by Fox Run Reserve, NY – Formerly a dairy farm, in 1984 the first vines at Fox Run were planted on glacial soils off Seneca Lake, NY. Winemaker Peter Bell and Vineyard Manager John Kasier agreed that the 2019 vintage was so outstanding that a Reserve Riesling was bottled, the first Reserve since 2011. Produced from a single lot, this wine is lush and creamy, with intense varietal flavor. A tight, energetic Riesling with exceptional length. 

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Cassis by Clinton Vineyards, NY – The 100-acre Clinton Vineyards, located in the mid-Hudson Valley, was founded in 1976. Cassis, a black current dessert wine, is traditionally used to create a kir, or kir royale, cocktail and this remarkable version would make a marvelous one. The winery also features an intriguing recipe for Duck au Cassis on their website: https://clintonvineyards.com/blogs/wine-pairings-recipes/duck-au-cassis 

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Dry Rosé by Newport Vineyards, RI – A rosé made from Cabernet Franc, showing red fruit, melon and a hint of rose petal. George Chelf finds the cool climate to the north of Newport brings out the best in this varietal. Co-owner Paul Nunes credits a combination of good soil, favorable climate and well-managed vines. The estate boasts over 50 acres of vineyards on its 100 acres of preserved farmland. Pix: Maizy, the 5th generation on the farm, trellising new vines using her great grandfather’s air compressor.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Ameritage 2019 by Pearmund Cellars, VA – As the 47th farm winery established in Virginia in 2002, Pearmund Cellars is credited with being one of the first Virginia wineries to craft a Bordeaux blend using the five French authorized grapes. A consistent winner, Pearmund Ameritage 2019 is the latest release. Full-bodied, with a black fruit nose, smooth and supple with notes of cocoa and vanilla.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Cabernet Franc 2017 by Jefferson Vineyards, VA – Jefferson Cabernet Franc is grown in raybun clay and raybun clay loam soil with the resulting wine aged in oak 9 months. Medium tannin with a bouquet of cedar and cherry, showing raspberry, blackberry and hints of vanilla and pepper on the palate. Winemaker Christopher Ritzcaven assists in harvest.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 by Fox Meadow Winery VA – Hand-crafted small lots of wine have characterized Fox Meadow since its founding almost 20 years ago. Lush and mouth-filling, this 84% cab/16% merlot wine was aged 15 months in French and American Oak. Dark fruit flavor – think plum, blueberry, blackberry – is touched with anise and violet. Nicely structured, with a long, lingering finish.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Chambourcin by Bordeleau Winery, VA – Located off the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay, Chambourcin was one of the original three varieties planted at Bordeleau in 1999. A consistent medal winner, the wine shows an outstanding melding of both fruit and earthy flavors. Supple, with a lingering chocolate finish.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

M-32 2019 by Robin Hill Farm and Vineyards, MD – No, not Mad Dog, not even Mogen David. The MD here stands for Maryland. This family-owned farm dates back to 1955 and has evolved with the times, becoming a winery in 2017. The 4th generation currently helps run the place and has crafted this  delicious dry chardonnel highlighted by notes of citrus, lemon, pear and white flower.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Reserve Chardonnay 2019 by Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery, NY – Owner Yancey Migliore-Stanforth generally spends her time in the tasting room while Michael Migliore and Brad Martz craft the wine. This Reserve Chardonnay was barrel fermented from estate grown grapes in the Hudson Valley, then aged in Hungarian oak for approximately 9 months. Rich, creamy, delicious.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Northern Spy 2019 by Putney Mountain Winery and Spirits, VT – Putney Mountain Winery was locavore before the term was coined. Dating to 1998, owners Charles and Kate Dodge determined to produce wines from Vermont’s best fruit. The Northern Spy apple is winter-hardy and naturally vigorous, and this resulting sparkling wine is semi-dry, bright, and lively. Pix: Northern Spy christens the USS Vermont!

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Tupelo Traditional 2020 by Wandering Bard Meadery, SC – Tupelo is the king of honey, and Wandering Bard’s Tupelo Traditional Mead could rightfully be called the king of meads. This rare type of honey is known for a mild, sweet and fruity taste with an aroma of flowers and cinnamon, and the mead brewed by owner Brian Daughhetee highlights these qualities to their fullest.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Merlot 2019 by Potomac Point Vineyard & Winery, VA – Northern Virginia had a great growing season in 2019, rain early in the year and hot and dry through summer. Potomac Point’s Merlot shows intense aromatics balanced with good acidity. Cherry and raspberry flavors are highlighted with herbal tones and a hint of mint. Oak aging layers in complex spice and vanilla.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner Other Red Vinifera Blends

Cleve 2019 by Philip Carter Winery of Virginia, VA – Two high tannin, high acid grapes, petit verdot and tannat, are masterfully blended in this unusual Virgina bottling. Ripe black fruits show fresh and elegant flavor, tannins are firm and solid. When Mr. Carter-Strother says he is of the Founding Family of American wine, we now have proof! Doesn’t look a day over 250!…

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Petit Verdot 2017 by Well Hung Vineyard, VA – Well Hung Vineyard is a negotiant brand with relationships with wine growers across the Commonwealth. This vintage shows appealing blackberry, cherry and plum fruits with notes of leather and smoke. Pair with boneless braised short rib over garlic mashed potatoes. 

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner Port-Styled Wines

Black Pearl 2019 by Woody Lodge Winery, PA – From chocolate wine to sweet tea ciders to wine ice cream, Woody Lodge speaks to the sweet tooth in all of us. This port-styled blackberry wine is no exception: Pour over vanilla ice cream or try with cheesecake for dessert. Pair with pecans, almonds, and hazelnuts for a more savory treat.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner Red Interspecific Blends

Vladimir by Katya Vineyards, FL – The Sokol family, of eastern European heritage, works with hybrid grapes suited to the hot Florida climate. The vineyards are rich in limestone and draw water from an underground aquifer. Vladimir was aged in premium French, Hungarian and American oak barriques which lend a vanilla-smoke quality to this full bodied red replete with dark fruits and berries. The finish is long and lingering.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Peach Hard Cider by Deep Roots Hard Cider, PA – Deep Roots produces high quality apple cider from locally grown apples. For this refreshing quaff, peaches are combined with Northern Spy and Idared apple varieties for a winning mix of tart and sweet flavors. Try with a crisp garden salad, baked or grilled salmon or simply on its own.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Moscato 2020 by Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery, PA – A fragrant moscato, bursting with white flower aromas and juicy peach, apricot and pear flavors, comes from the Lake Erie area in Pennsylvania. Linda and Steve Weaver, daughter and son-in-law of founders Betty and Joe Carroll, manage the 65 acre estate, and have recently been joined by their son Robbie at this award winning family-run winery.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Riesling Reserve 2020 by Dr. Konstantin Frank, NY – Unoaked, but aged on the lees for 5 months, this late-harvest style riesling has 43/gL and a low alc of 11.3%. Crafted from 100% estate-grown Seneca Lake fruit, where the climate is a few degrees warmer than other upstate areas, the wine is medium-sweet and bursting with rich papaya, cantaloupe and honey notes. It is a perfect enhancement to flavorful cheeses and spicy pan Asian cuisine.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Paxxito 2017 by Barboursville Vineyards, VA – Slow-fermented with native yeast, this blend of Moscato Ottonel and Vidal is a delightful dessert wine made in traditional passito style. After harvest, the grapes are left to dry naturally and to raisinate, causing the flavors and sugars to concentrate to a multi-layered richness. You’ll find tropical notes as well as pear, honey and almond in this lush quaff. Paired with Panna Cotta al Profumo di Lavanda. 

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Viognier 2020 by Two Twisted Posts Winery, VA – Two Twisted Posts hit the ground running with their first vintage winning the coveted Virginia Governor’s Cup. This viognier, enhanced with a bit of chardonnay, is done in a rich, creamy style having spent considerable time in barrel. Delicate peach and apricot aromas lead in to white fruit and floral notes. Husband and wife team Brad and Theresa Robertson, he in the vineyard, she in the cellar, stamp their appealing style onto this outstanding wine.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Nittany Mountain White 2020 by Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery, PA – This family-owned winery profits from higher elevation vineyards in the Pennsylvania mountains with good air flow, and a southern exposure that contributes to ideal ripening of the fruit. This estate grown wine, a blend of French-American hybrid grapes, is smooth and fruity, very food friendly and easily quaffable on its own.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Fusion 2020 by Waltz Vineyards, PA – From the Lancaster AVA in Pennsylvania, Waltz Vineyards blends estate-grown semillon, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc in this semi-dry white wine. With a climate similar to northern Italy and central France, these white varietals enjoy a long growing season resulting in optimum phenolic development. Crisp and fruity, with a hint of minerality on the finish.

2021 ASWA Best of Category/Gold Medal Winner

Cherry Supershtious 2020 by Sleepy Cat Urban Winery, PA – Those of us of a certain age remember a song, fondly: “Sweet cherry wine, so very fine.” Well, here it is! 100% cherry fruit from New York state,  with an rs of 9.5%, this low alcohol quaff can be the start of a quite enjoyable evening. (No, it’s not by Stevie Wonder. Comment if you know!)

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Blush/Rose Hybrid/NA

Fiore 2018 by Cross Keys Vineyards, VA -The latest vintage of last’s years Best of Show winner. Heavier on the chambourcin this year (at 60% Chambourcin, 40% Cabernet Franc) the wine shows clean, crisp flavors and a nice balance of fruit and acidity.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Blush/Rose Vinifera

Stiegel Rose’ 2018 by Waltz Vineyards, PA – This 75% Cab Sauv/25% Cab Franc blend from Lancaster County, PA, was whole-cluster pressed and shows notes of watermelon highlighted by hints of strawberry and hibiscus. Off dry and with nice acidity on the palate.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Bordeaux-Style Red Blends  

Sky Island Red Wine 2015 by Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery, NY – Owner Michael Migliore holds a master’s degree in organic chemistry at SUNY, New Paltz and works closely with Cornell Cooperative Extension testing new grape varieties. This nicely-aging classic bordeaux blend consists of 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot, and 5% Malbec.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc 2016 by New Kent Winery, VA – Since 2014, the winery has been operated by Joe and Jo Anna Dombroski and their family. This Cabernet Franc was aged over 24 months in American oak and shows notes of plum and black cherry with hints toasted oak and caramel.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 by 21 Brix Winery, NY – From 21 Brix Winery’s Olde Chautaugua Farms at Lake Erie, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is rich and smooth, aged in French and American oak for 14 months giving distinct notes of cocoa, cinnamon, and hints of vanilla. Under vine since the 1950’s, the 250 acre farm is helmed by the family’s 3rd generation.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Chambourcin

Chambourcin 2017 by William Heritage Winery, NJ – Formerly a site of peach and apple orchards, owners Bill and Penni Heritage began cultivating grapes in 1999 in the heart of New Jersey’s Outer Coastal Plain AVA. Heritage Chambourcin, according to the winery, can be thought of as the “East Coast Red Zinfandel.” Winemaker Sean Comninos practices saignee as well as extended maceration to extract full color and flavor.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Chardonnay

Chardonnay 2017 by Cross Keys Vineyards & Estate, VA – Vinified using stainless steel, neutral oak and judicious use of new oak, this wine exhibits clean apple flavor with undertones of peach and flint. 100% estate-grown, 100% Chardonnay from the Shenandoah Valley.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Fortified Wines

Genesis 2017 by Fifty-Third Winery & Vineyards, VA – Genesis is a fortified wine made with 100% norton grapes from the winery’s White Walnut Vineyard. Fifty-Third Winery has 103 acres with 22 acres planted to different varietals. The original “green” tasting room officially opened in 2011 and holds a LEED Platinum certification.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Sweet White Hybrid/NA (RS > 4 % )

Moscato 2018 by Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery, PA – Founded by Joe Carroll in 1990, the winery is now under the direction of the second generation, daughter and son-in-law Linda and Steve Weaver. Produced from AVA Finger Lakes grapes their 2018 Moscato is a lush, sweet wine with aromas of honeysuckle and orange blossom, and flavors of apricots, peaches, and pears.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Viognier

Viognier 2018 by Jefferson Vineyards, VA – Adjacent to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate, Jefferson Vineyards heritage goes back to our country’s founding. This Viognier exhibits aromas of honeysuckle, lychee, and orange zest with rich apricot and peach flavors.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner White Vinifera Blends

Cool White 2017 by Cool Ridge Vineyard, MD – Gerhard Glocker’s 15 acre vineyard lies on a steep, south-facing slope that terraces down to Cool Hollow and Antietam Creek in the Cumberland Valley. The fertile, well-drained limestone soils yield nine different vinifera varietals. This winner is composed of equal amounts of pinot gris, viognier, riesling, and traminette, vinified dry for fresh fruit flavor and hints of white flower.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Gewurztraminer

Dry Gewurztraminer 2017 by Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars, NY – Dry Gewurztraminer by Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars, NY. From the Finger Lakes AVA, this estate-bottled 100% gewurztraminer was fermented in stainless steel to maintain lush aromas of blossom, lychee and spice.

A hint of ginger and spice on the palate make this the perfect accompaniment to Asian and Mexican cuisine or even your holiday turkey.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Other Red Vinifera

2017 Calliope by Muse Vineyards, VA. The owners of Muse Vineyards find their “inspiration and our devotion to time-honored farming and wine production techniques…[in the] the legendary domaine vineyards of France and Italy.”

This Rhone-style blend of 65% grenache and 35% mourvedre from the Shenandoah Valley AVA is rich and deep with notes of black fruit and spice.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Petit Manseng

Petit Manseng 2018 by Wisdom Oak Winery, VA – Petit Manseng is all the rage in Virginia. This example from Jason and Laura Lavallee’s Wisdom Oak Winery shows why. 100% petit manseng from their Monticello Orchard House Vineyard, the wine aged for 7 months in stainless steel, and shows aromas of pear, honeysuckle and light florals. Delicate, delicious and thirst-quenching.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Port-Styled Wines

Black Pearl 2018 by Woody Lodge Winery, PA – Produced by Woody Lodge in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny Mountains using New York fruit.  100% blackberry juice fortified to port strength. Rich and flavorful, the winery’s first port-style wine is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Seyval / Chardonel

Chardonel Reserve 2017 by Narmada Winery, VA – Winemaker/owner Sudha Patil is a specialist in the chardonel grape. This estate-grown 100% chardonel shows creamy white fruits and citrus flavors and a richness achieved through aging on lees. The winery recommends pairing with soft-shell crabs, chicken curry, or foie gras.  

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Other Red Vinifera Varietals 

Sister winery to Pearmund Cellars and Vint Hill Craft Winery, Tannat 2017 by Effingham Manor Winery, VA is 100% tannat from select vineyards in Virginia. Spice notes marry with black raspberry, plum and currant flavors in this enticingly full-flavored wine.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Other White Vinifera Varietals

Vermentino Reserve 2018 by Barboursville Vineyards, VA – Barboursville’s extraordinary love of Virginia terroir combines with their Italian heritage in this 100% vermentino bottling.  A classic with seafood, the wine is luscious and minerally at the same time brought about by extended contact with the lees and stainless steel aging.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Cider

Ladies’ Man nv by Fabbioli Cellars, VA – Fruity and subtly sweet with enticing light pink highlights, Ladies’ Man Cider is made with 87% Honeycrisp Apples and 13% Fabbioli’s signature red raspberry wine. Chaptalized to 3% residual sugar, the alcohol content remains a low 7% appropriate to the cider category.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Other Red Hybrid/NA Varietals

Holiday Heaven 2017 by Holemans LLC, VA – Steven Holemans grew up on the farm in Durham County, NC, that is now his vineyard. “There was a uniqueness of the muscadine grapes as the skin of the grape was thicker and appeared to be non-edible. However, the juice of the muscadine was much sweeter than a normal grape. Once you bite into the muscadine grape, there is a burst of sweet juice that makes you long for more.”

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Petit Verdot

Petit Verdot 2016 by Casanel Vineyards, VA – Winemaker Katie DeSouza aged this 100% petit verdot for 18 month in French oak. Flavors of black plum, blueberry, cassis, violets, and dark chocolate shine in this estate-grown bottling from the Middleburg AVA.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Riesling

Riesling 2018 by Woody Lodge Winery, PA – This six-year-old winery nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Central Pennsylvania highlights the quality that can be brought forth from this area. Their 100% Riesling is  semi-sweet with hints of pear, peach, and apricot.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Sparkling Hybrid/NA Wines

Estate Petillant Naturel 2018 by Glendale Ridge Vineyard, MA – A fascinating blend of 80% vidal blanc, 10% aromella, and 10% traminette was estate-grown at Glendale Ridge;s Nonotuck and West Block vineyards. Vinified dry and allowed to sparkle naturally, the wine is light and floral with peach and pear notes. This marks the very first time a Massachusetts wine has taken Best of Category in the Atlantic Seaboard competition.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Syrah/Shiraz

Leaf Stone 2016 by Black Ankle Vineyards, MD – The self-identified “control freaks” at Black Ankle produced this 100% syrah from a sloping vineyard that faces predominately west and south. Aged 18 months in French oak, earthy, smoky aromas lead to dark fruits, chocolate and tobacco on the palate with a finish that exquisitely balances tannin and acidity.

2019 ASWA Best of Category Winner Vidal Blanc

Legacy 2017 by Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards, MD – A dry version of vidal blanc, with crisp tropical notes of honeysuckle, pineapple and mango. Crafted from estate-grown grapes on this family farm that dates back to 1955. New to winemaking, the family transitioned to vineyards in 2012 and opened their winery doors in 2014.

2018 Best of Show

CrossKeys Vineyard Fiore 2017, Virginia

This rosé wine is composed of 70% cabernet franc and 30% chambourcin, and was made with estate-grown Shenandoah Valley AVA fruit. It shows a rich fruitiness balanced with savory herbal notes. Grapes for the wine were whole-cluster pressed and fermented in stainless steel.

The cabernet franc was harvested early specifically for use in this rosé, and contributes to the more complex herbal and citrus flavors, according to the winery. Suggested retail price is $19.50. The winery recommends pairing it with soft cheeses, rich seafood dishes, or herb-rubbed poultry to show off the complexity of the wine.

CrossKeys Vineyards is a family owned and operated winery located on 125 acres in the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Its first vines were planted in 2001 and now include 32 acres of vines with twelve grape varieties.  

“Over the years, we’ve brought home a lot of gold and double gold medals, but this is the big one we have been waiting for,” said Babak Bakhtiar, CrossKeys’ director of marketing. “This has been a great year for our wines at awards competitions and this Best of Show is proof that Head Winemaker Stephan Heyns and Assistant Winemaker Steve Monson are undoubtedly crafting the finest wines in Virginia.”

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Other Red Hybrid/Native American Varietals

Shelburne Vineyard Marquette 2016, Vermont

One of the most successful cold-climate grapes, Marquette was developed in Minnesota and thrives in Vermont. Owner Ken Albert became inspired to grow grapes after visiting vineyards even further to the north in Canada.

Shelburne’s Marquette is rich, robust and spicy, benefitting from lees contact, and is produced using sustainable practices at this LEED-designed winery.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Chambourcin

Port of Leonardtown Winery Chambourcin Reserve 2014, Maryland

This chambourcin is made of fruit from the 12-vineyard Port of Leonardtown Winery co-op in southern Maryland. Winemaker Lauren Zimmerman highlights the herbal and spice notes of the grape, achieved by aging in French and American oak for 18 months. 15% cabernet franc lends a peppery, cassis touch.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Blush/Rose Vinifera

Shelton Vineyards 259 Dry Rose 2017, North Carolina

From the Yadkin Valley AVA in North Carolina, winemaker Ethan Brown makes use of a gravity flow system to ensure gentle handling of the juice. Vinified bone dry and made with equal parts petit verdot, tannat and merlot, this rose is medium-bodied and crisp with cherry, strawberry and juicy watermelon flavors. Note: owners Charlie and Ed Shelton were instrumental in creating the Yadkin Valley AVA, North Carolina’s first, in 2003.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Other White Hybrid/Native American Varietal

Shelburne Vineyard LaCrescent 2017, Vermont

Notably cold hardy – to -36F – the LaCrescent grape comes into its own in Vermont. With flavors that may remind you of a moscato, it’s a relatively new grape (2002) created by the University of Minnesota. Shelburne’s expression is semi-dry and delicious, with a floral bouquet, juicy peach/apricot flavors and crisp acidity.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Sauvignon Blanc

Stinson Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2017, Virginia

From the Monticello AVA, a combination of estate fruit and fruit from Mt. Juliet Vineyards which is across the road from the winery, this flinty, mineral-laden Sauvignon Blanc is balanced with melon and opulent white flower flavors. Fermented sur lie in concrete (see the “egg”!) and stainless steel. Clean, crisp and lingering.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER: Other Red Vinifera Blend

Philip Carter Winery of Virginia Cleve 2015, Virginia

Cleve Hall was an historic estate owned by the Carter family, and this tribute wine comprises all the history and fine quality the Carter family has embraced since their first wine award in London in 1762. Cleve 2015 is a 50/50 blend of petit verdot and tannat. Rustic yet velvety, with subtle oak married with jammy notes. The winery recommends decanting.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Fortified Wine

Deer Run Winery Dockside NV, New York

On Conesus Lake in NY’s Finger Lakes AVA, Deer Run produces this yummy dessert wine, aged on bourbon barrel staves. It’s made with 60% frontenac and 40% noiret grapes. Frontenac gives a cherry/chocolate note and noiret contributes light spice. Smoky with dark cherry notes and a warm woody essence, the wine was fortified to 15.5%.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Sweet White Interspecific Blend

Rockbridge Vineyard V d’Or 2016, Virginia

The technology of refrigeration becomes art as practiced by Rockbridge Vineyards in the production of this “ice wine.” From Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, this blend of vidal blanc, riesling, and vignoles with a touch of traminette yields a lush wine redolent of honey and oranges.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Port-Styled Wine

Port of Leonardtown Winery Port 2014, Maryland

Yes, Port of Leonardtown Port has captured the Best of Category for port-style wine. Made with chambourcin grapes grown in St. Mary’s and Calvert counties by this winemaking co-op located just off the Chesapeake Bay in Southern MD. The wine is robust, and rich with dark fruit flavor, fortified to 20% alcohol. Pair with dark chocolate or spice cake.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Sweet Fruit Wine

Tomasello Winery Cranberry NV, New Jersey

 Tomasello Winery in Hammonton, NJ, dates back to the repeal of Prohibition and in fact holds winery license #68 in the whole country. In the 1970’s they were among the first to experiment with French American hybrid grapes. Justifiably proud of their portfolio of fruit wines, Charles Tomasello Jr, 3rd generation owner, says, “We select fruit from specific growers whose passion in fruit growing matches our passion in wine making.” With cranberries from Massachusetts, Tomasello Cranberry Wine is a 100% natural wine showing intense color, lightly sweet and balanced with characteristic tart acidity.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Vidal Blanc

Sharrott Winery Vidal Blanc 2017, New Jersey

Midway between Philadelphia and Atlantic City, Sharrott produced this 100% Vidal Blanc in the Outer Coastal Plain AVA of New Jersey. Founded a decade ago by Larry Sharrott, the property was formerly an apple orchard and now is a completely solar-powered winery. This wine highlights the familiar citrus/pineapple fruitiness of the vidal grape with lovely aromas and a light body.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio

Fox Meadow Winery Pinot Grigio 2017, Virginia

From the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in VA, estate-grown fruit is steel fermented and aged to highlight a balance of acidity with minerality and citrus notes. Owner Dan Mortland says, “In two words, elegant and savory,” and is particularly proud to have won the Best of Category in both 2018 and in 2017, for Fox Meadow Pinot Gris.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Cabernet Franc

Pearmund Cellars Cabernet Franc 2016, Virginia

From Toll Gate Vineyard in Rappahannock County, (unfortunately for sale…) this Cab Franc is Pearmund’s second Best of Category winner this year. Excellent with gouda cheese or olive tapenade, with a characteristic hint of bell pepper combining with cocoa, cherry and black raspberry flavors. Sweet tannins round out this lush wine.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Gewurztraminer

Newport Vineyards Gewurztraminer 2017, Rhode Island

Classic rose petal, ginger and orange zest overflow in this delightful wine. Soil, climate and well-managed vines fuse to perfection in this Rhode Island offering. Winemaker George Chelf’s philosophy is minimal intervention and to preserve the grape’s natural character: the long, cool growing season off the Narragansett Bay yields outstanding fruit.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Red Hybrid/Native American Blend

Deer Run Winery Runway Red NV, New York

From the Finger Lakes AVA in NY, this blend features corot noir and noiret with a touch of Marechal Foch and chambourcin. Corot noir typically shows deep red color and attractive berry and cherry fruit aromas while noiret contributes notes of green and black pepper, with raspberry and mint aromas, and a fine tannin structure. Semi-dry and smooth.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Petit Verdot

Narmada Winery Petit Verdot 2016, Virginia

Narmada Winery produced last year’s Best of Show, and this Petit Verdot continues that winning tradition. Rich with coffee aromas, full-bodied and showing an intriguing blend of chocolate and savory bacon flavors underscored with bright orange zest, this is a blend of 78% petit verdot, 10% merlot, 7% tannat and 5% cab franc. From Rappahannock County, VA.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Chardonnay

Gray Ghost Vineyards Reserve Chardonnay 2016, Virginia

From Rappahannock County, VA, fermented in new French oak and softened by malo, the resulting mouthfeel of this chardonnay is rich and elegant with notes of pear and fig and a hint of vanilla. Winemaking team/owners Al and Cheryl Kellert love the buttery, toasty oak finish.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Sweet Red Hybrid/Native American

21 Brix Winery Ella’s Red, NV, New York

From Lake Erie, NY. Seven-year-old 21 Brix Winery had two Best of Category winners this year. Unabashedly sweet and jammy, Ella’s Red is 100% concord, and the perfect pairing for Cherry Chocolate Cookies.  

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Albarino

Boordy Vineyards Landmark Albarino 2017, Maryland

From South Mountain Vineyard in Maryland, the Spanish grape Albarino is still a rarity here, but enjoying great success. At this vineyard, rocky, well-drained soils and an extended growing season combine with great airflow that minimizes frost. The wine is cool fermented and bottled early to capture fresh peach and flower aromas and crisp acidity.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Petit Manseng

Fifty-Third Winery & Vineyards Petit Manseng 2016, Virginia

Cooper Vineyards, purchased in 2015 by David and Susan Drillock, is transitioning to the name Fifty-Third Winery. Fitting, as it was the 53rd farm winery licensed in VA. Graham Bell is the winemaker, and this expression of the current darling of VA grapes is medium-bodied with notes of pineapple, pear and honey.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Sweet Blush Wine

Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery Mountain Blush 2017, Pennsylvania

The white zin craze may be over, but this blend of steuben touched with 5% seyval blanc will bring memories of the best of that popular rose style. From the heart of central Pennsylvania in the Lake Erie ava (which covers parts of Ohio and New York as well as PA), strawberry and raspberry flavors enhance fruit, mild cheeses and rich desserts.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Riesling

Chateau LaFayette Reneau Semi-Dry Riesling 2017, New York

The owners of Glenora and Knapp purchased LaFayette Reneau a few years back but maintain the separate character of each. LaFayette Reneau is in the Finger Lakes ava off Seneca Lake in New York which was formed by glaciers and rarely freezes. Shale soil and rolling slopes make this perfect riesling territory. Mineral notes combine with honeysuckle and apple in this low-alc, 2.8 rs wine.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Red Interspecific Blends

Knob Hall Winery N39 2015, Maryland

“Latitude without attitude” defines this wine, named for the 39th degree north of the equator, and “Smooth jazz,” according to winemaker/co-owner Mary Beth Seibert. 70% chambourcin, 30% cab franc made with estate-grown grapes in Cumberland Valley, Maryland. Aged 18-24 months in American and French oak, blackberry and plum tones are touched with a spicy wood note.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Merlot

Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery Merlot 2014, North Carolina

 Thirty acres in the Yadkin Valley in North Carolina, purchased a decade ago by the Jones and von Drehle families, produced this Best of Category winner. Five clones of merlot are planted in the coolest section of the vineyard ensuring a long growing season to maximize flavor. The winery recommends a classic boeuf bourguignon with this plummy, spicy wine.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Bordeaux Style Red Blend

Pearmund Cellars Ameritage Reserve 2016, Virginia

This wine is a blend of equal amounts cab sauv, petit verdot and malbec. Three days of cold-soaking the grapes followed by 2 weeks maceration lend the wine its rich dark fruit, spice, vanilla, and cocoa notes. Aged 10 months separately, then married and aged an additional 4 months, all American oak.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER White Hybrid/Native American Blend

Rockbridge Vineyard Tuscarora White 2016, Virginia

Winemaker Shep Rouse discovered his love of wine in Germany back in the 1970’s and built his winery in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley in 1988. Using traditional small batch methods with minimal processing has earned this vidal blanc/traminette blend accolades. Semi-dry and stainless fermented.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Cabernet Sauvignon

Gray Ghost Vineyards Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Virginia

Approaching its 25th anniversary, Gray Ghost was a pioneer of the modern Virginia wine trade. Their Reserve Cab, 100% estate grown varietal, and is only produced in exceptional years. New French oak, 3 yrs aging, and malo contribute to vibrant plum, blackberry and mocha notes, lush tannins, and lingering finish. Ageworthy, 20+ years according to the winery!

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Sparkling Vinifera Wine

21 Brix Winery Brutella 2016, New York

Alright wine snobs! Get over yourselves! 21 Brix Winery’s Brutella 2016 from Lake Erie, NY, is named for their pink elephant mascot Ella. It is delicious! 100% chardonnay, finished dry, by winemaker Kris Kane.  

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER White Vinifera Blend

The Barns at Hamilton Station Cascina 2017, Virginia

The Barns at Hamilton Station is a family-owned winery on a former dairy farm. Virginia luminary Michael Shaps is the winemaker. Cascina is a versatile blend of equal parts sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, viognier and petit manseng, with grassy, herbal notes and a tropical finish.

2018 ASWA CATEGORY WINNER Viognier

Barboursville Vineyards Viognier Reserve 2017, Virginia

For the third year in a row, legendary Barboursville Vineyard of Virginia captured the Best of Category award for its Viognier. Contributing to its perpetual success, the wine is 100% varietal, 100% stainless fermented and aged, stays on the lees for 9-12 months, and receives additional bottle aging before being released.

Tom Bannwart is the National Food and Beverage Director for Billy Casper Golf. He is
a graduate from Virginia Tech with a degree in Hospitality & Tourism, and has directed
Food and Beverage operations at Walt Disney World, The Peabody Hotel, and the Ocean
Reef Club. He has also held General Manager positions at high end private county clubs
over his 23-year career. Tom is passionate about promoting East Coast wines and wineries,
and this year marks his 8th time as a ASWA Wine Competition judge. Tom is also a Certified
Sommelier by The Court of Master Sommeliers. Tom resides in Daleville, VA with his wife
and two children.

Melissa Bartlett has a passion for wine, which led her to seek to a career at Virginia’s
favorite winery, Pearmund Cellars. She worked as one of the winery managers and as the
winery sommelier. She is a long-term member of the AWS and served for three years as
Chapter Chair for the John Marshall chapter in Virginia. Melissa is a Certified Judge through
the AWS Wine Judge Certification Program and a Certified Sommelier through the
International Wine Guild. Melissa is a free-lance wine consultant and educator.

JoAnn DeGaglia is a Certified Specialist of Wine and a member of the Society of Wine
Educators as well as a Certified Advanced Sommelier earning both an American and Italian
Wine Specialist Degree from the North American Sommelier Assn with honors. She is a
popular Wine Educator and Associate Instructor at the Westchester Wine School in New
York and the North American Sommelier Association in Los Angeles. Earning her Wine
Judge Certification from the American Wine Society she has judged at numerous
competitions including the Finger Lakes International, Indy International, Texas Lone Star,
The Big E among others. She works part time at two of the Hudson Valleys great wine
destinations, Brotherhood, Americas Oldest Winery and the Wine Spectators award
winning Glenmere Mansion in Chester New York. She is a self-proclaimed wine disciple
who loves the people, the places and the wines of the world.

Jane Duralia has been a member of the American Wine Society (AWS) since 1992,
gradually learning about the many grape varietals. She became fascinated with wine
structure variability and how various wine making techniques and practices affect the
various result in a specific varietal characteristic and how it presents in the bottle.
Becoming more involved with AWS opened educational doors and she was thirsty for wine
knowledge from all parts of the world. Jane passed the introductory Sommelier course and
then followed up with the three year AWS certified Judge course, and is now a Certified
Wine Judge. After this she was hooked; knowing how to evaluate wines hence appreciating
them even more. Jane enjoys judging an average of 10 -14 competitions annually around
the country; Tasters’ Guild International, INDY International, Atlantic Seaboard, New York
State, Fair, NC State Fair, Wines of the South, and Mid-Atlantic Region Competition to name
a few. Travelling extensively, arranging tasting and educational opportunities wherever we
visited, opened her wine horizons and enhanced her abilities to pair food and wine. The
uniqueness of dining as you travel abroad creates an appreciation for wine and food
pairing and a hunger for more knowledge. Jane’s travels include: Italy, Germany, Austria,
Spain, Portugal, Greece, South Africa, Croatia, France, and Hungary. Traveling to Canada
(Niagara on the Peninsula, Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island)) Washington State (Yakima
Valley, Seattle), Oregon (Umpqua and Willamette Valley, and Hood River), California (from
Amador County down through Temecula and tasting rooms all along the way), New York –
Finger Lakes, Virginia (Mid Northern), North Carolina (Yakin Valley and beyond) and the
Northern Georgia Mountains.

Rege Duralia became intrigued with wine shortly after joining the American Wine
Society (AWS) in 1992. That association opened a door to amateur winemaking and
enrolling in Introduction to Winemaking, UC-Davis, a one semester long distance learning
course. He joined the Tasters Guild in 2002. Visits to wine growing regions of the world –
California, Oregon, Washington, North Carolina, Virginia, New York Finger Lakes, Ohio,
Michigan, Germany, Austria, Italy, Southern France, Hungary, Croatia, Canada, South Africa,
Spain, Portugal and Australia expanded his horizon of wine. These visits enabled him to
understand different grape growing and wine making methods as well as to learn firsthand
about wine varietal characteristics and stylistic differences influenced by terroir and
different winemaking techniques in the various growing regions. Rege became a Certified
Wine Judge in 2007 by successfully completing a three year course offered by the American
Wine Society and was recertified in 2012.

His judging career began in 2002 on Hilton Head Island for the Annual Wine Festival Judging. Invitations to judge have come from the AWS Commercial and Amateurcompetition, the Tasters Guild Consumer Judging and International Wine Judging, the South
Carolina State Fair, Atlantic Seaboard Competition, Mid-Atlantic Southeastern Wine
Competition, Wines of the South, New York State Fair and North Carolina State Fair.
What makes wine interesting is that there are many variable factors influencing its
production so that every opening of a bottle is a new adventure. It is the perfect beverage
for a meal any time of the day.

Linda King is a Certified International Wine Judge, Winemaker, Winery Consultant, and
Educator. Linda is a retired winemaker, last working for Rag Apple Lassie Vineyards in NC and hasbeen a winemaker for over 40 years. She is an internationally certified wine judge. Linda has a consulting business titled “Linda King Consulting, LLC” which specializes in winemaking, wine appreciation and wine education. A more than 30 year member of the American Wine Society, Linda has served on that Board and ran the AWS Wine Judge Certification Program, and was voted Most Outstanding National Member in 1993.

Matthew Kristofik is Past Chairman of the American Wine Society Commercial Wine
Competition. Matt initially became interested in wine while stationed in Vallejo, California in the
early 1960’s. A longtime member of the American Wine Society, he chaired the Society’s
Commercial Wine Competition for twenty years as well as the Pennsylvania Winery Association
Competition. He has consulted and chaired the implementation of several amateur wine
competitions in the Pittsburgh area. Matt is actively involved in wine education as well as pairing wine with food. In recent years, he has coordinated wine tours to the Yadkin Valley of North Carolina to introduce that area to friends and fellow oenophiles. Matt served in the US Navy Submarine Service as a nuclear power plant operator. On completion of service, he graduated from St. Vincent College receiving a BS in Biology. He recently retired after over 30 years in neurosurgical research focusing on the treatment of brain tumors.

Annemarie Morse has a master’s degree in enology from Cornell University. She has
worked in the wine industry for over 10 years in various capacities; an assistant winemaker, wine educator, judge, sales and consulting. She is the initiator and chairperson for the Finger Lakes Chapter of the American Wine Society, (AWS). Annemarie has completed the Court of Master Sommeliers, Introductory Course and Exam and is an AWS certified wine judge, having judged in the following competitions: Finger Lakes International, Winemaker Magazine, New York State Fair, Big E Northeast Gold, Great Lakes and Eastern States as well as judging panels for Cornell University research. She is a passionate wine educator, instructing Cornell students, faculty, staff, Alumni and the public on wine education, appreciation, winemaking, blending, judging, business meal etiquette, cooking with wine and wine & food pairing. She is a published freelance wine and food writer.

Ron Natalie is a AWS Certified Wine Judge. He also holds WSET level 3 certification and is
certified as an aficionado of wine by Robert Parker and Kevin Zraly. He is an AWS life member and chapter chair. Ron developed his love of wine after running a marathon in Bordeaux. He lives in North Carolina with his equally wine-crazed wife.

Kevin Ostrowski is a former high school chemistry, physics, and math teacher, and a
retired QA/QC utility executive. He is the current Chapter Chair of the American Wine Society’s
(AWS) Beaver County, PA, chapter. An AWS certified wine judge, Kevin is also a Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) with the Society of Wine Educators, holds a Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 Award in Wine and Spirits (with Merit), and has completed level 1 Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers. He has enjoyed the privilege of judging many local and regional wine competitions. He will begin November 2019 as an Instructor for Wine Judge Certification Training Year 1 with the American Wine Society, and is an instructor of wine for Butler County Community College in Butler, PA. As a home wine maker, he has won several medals from both AWS and WineMaker magazine. Kevin Resides in Beaver, PA.

Nancy Slick is a long-term member of the American Wine Society and supporter of the
organization. She is a graduate of the Wine Judge Training Program and a Certified Wine Judge. Nancy also teaches in the program and has developed a specialty in ciders and meads in addition to wine. Additionally, she has presented many educational sessions on all aspects of wine and has judged in many competitions, both amateur and commercial. Nancy has worked many years in wine retail and is currently working in food service and enhancing and promoting their wine program. She has judged in many competitions, both amateur and commercial. Nancy resides in Maryland.

John Sporing is building on his passion for wine, travel and teaching, John founded A Life
Well Drunk. He regularly hosts bespoked wine tours around the world. Recently, these tours have included South Africa, Portugal, Argentina, as well as domestic destinations (California and Oregon). John holds certifications by the Society of Wine Educators (Certified Specialist of Wine), the Wine & Spirit Educational Trust (WSET Level 3), the Court of Master Sommeliers (Sommelier), the Sherry Regulatory Council (Certified Sherry Wine Specialist–Intermediate); and from the Center for Wine Origins (Wine Location Specialist).

Jeff Stabins is a Regional Vice President of the American Wine Society (AWS) and is an
AWS Certified Wine Judge. He is a Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) Diploma
student. Jeff is also on the Board of Directors of the Raise a Glass Foundation and is Director
of the Great American Amateur Wine Competition. Jeff has enjoyed judging in many wine
competitions for 12 years.

Pat Valas is an American Wine Society Certified Judge as well as being an instructor for
the AWS wine judge training program and, from 1995 to the present, has judged in many
wine competitions, including the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, American
Wine Society Commercial and Amateurs Competitions, Winemaker Magazine’s Amateur
competition, the New Jersey Governor’s Cup, the Pennsylvania Governor’s Cup, the
Pittsburgh AWS Regional Amateur Competition, the Maryland Wine Festival Amateur, Best
of Show Frederick County Fair Amateur, Montgomery County Fair Amateur and the
Maryland State Fair Amateur which included the Best of Show. Part of her early training
involved a summer job in the vineyards of G. Hamilton Mowbray in Westminster, MD
where she tied up vines and learned from this east coast master. She currently does freelance
wine consulting, wine writing and wine education. She holds a DeLong Century Club
certificate having tasted 100 different wine varietals and is close to her second 100. She
has traveled with the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine to various international
conferences and wine tastings in Provence, Bergerac, and Reims (Champagne) France;
Barcelona, Spain; Morges, Switzerland, London, England, Budapest, Hungary and most
recently Sonoma and Napa in Northern California. She especially enjoyed her Bordeaux
river cruise with Cooper Vineyard and explored Burgundy with them in Sept 2016 followed
by a Danube cruise with the AWS in spring 2017.

Anne Vercelli has worked with the Cloverdale Citrus Fair now called the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition, since 1987, most recently as its Assistant Director. Anne is
responsible for assisting in overall planning, organizing and implementing all aspects of the
competition with primary responsibility for receiving, coding, and presenting the over 5,000 wines received each year. She is responsible for a staff of 100 volunteers.
Vercelli has worked as the Coordinator of the Professional Food Competitions of the Sonoma
County Harvest Fair since 1981. She has elevated the food competitions from 2 judgings to 10
judgings with entries increasing each year. She is responsible for 12 chef demonstrations during the Harvest Fair week-end. She is also a Professional Wine Judge having served on a judging panel for the International Women’s Wine Competition in Santa Rosa, California.
Anne has been an instructor since 1981 at Santa Rosa Junior College where she currently teaches 6 classes in Italian Cuisine in the Culinary Department. She also assists in the College’s Agricultural Department where she teaches Wine Service and Hospitality and Sonoma County Wine Appellations classes. She is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America (C.I.A.) with an A.O.S degree. Upon graduation she received the Richard Keating award “Most Likely To Succeed”. She was also awarded the coveted position of “Fellowship” in the Escoffier Room at the C.I.A. Anne received her B.A. in Food and Nutrition from California State University, Sacramento.

Tom Bannwart is the National Food and Beverage Director for Billy Casper Golf. He is
a graduate from Virginia Tech with a degree in Hospitality & Tourism, and has directed
Food and Beverage operations at Walt Disney World, The Peabody Hotel, and the Ocean
Reef Club. He has also held General Manager positions at high end private county clubs
over his 23-year career. Tom is passionate about promoting East Coast wines and wineries,
and this year marks his 8th time as a ASWA Wine Competition judge. Tom is also a Certified
Sommelier by The Court of Master Sommeliers. Tom resides in Daleville, VA with his wife
and two children.

Melissa Bartlett has a passion for wine, which led her to seek to a career at Virginia’s
favorite winery, Pearmund Cellars. She worked as one of the winery managers and as the
winery sommelier. She is a long-term member of the AWS and served for three years as
Chapter Chair for the John Marshall chapter in Virginia. Melissa is a Certified Judge through
the AWS Wine Judge Certification Program and a Certified Sommelier through the
International Wine Guild. Melissa is a free-lance wine consultant and educator.

JoAnn DeGaglia is a Certified Specialist of Wine and a member of the Society of Wine
Educators as well as a Certified Advanced Sommelier earning both an American and Italian
Wine Specialist Degree from the North American Sommelier Assn with honors. She is a
popular Wine Educator and Associate Instructor at the Westchester Wine School in New
York and the North American Sommelier Association in Los Angeles. Earning her Wine
Judge Certification from the American Wine Society she has judged at numerous
competitions including the Finger Lakes International, Indy International, Texas Lone Star,
The Big E among others. She works part time at two of the Hudson Valleys great wine
destinations, Brotherhood, Americas Oldest Winery and the Wine Spectators award
winning Glenmere Mansion in Chester New York. She is a self-proclaimed wine disciple
who loves the people, the places and the wines of the world.

Jane Duralia has been a member of the American Wine Society (AWS) since 1992,
gradually learning about the many grape varietals. She became fascinated with wine
structure variability and how various wine making techniques and practices affect the
various result in a specific varietal characteristic and how it presents in the bottle.
Becoming more involved with AWS opened educational doors and she was thirsty for wine
knowledge from all parts of the world. Jane passed the introductory Sommelier course and
then followed up with the three year AWS certified Judge course, and is now a Certified
Wine Judge. After this she was hooked; knowing how to evaluate wines hence appreciating
them even more. Jane enjoys judging an average of 10 -14 competitions annually around
the country; Tasters’ Guild International, INDY International, Atlantic Seaboard, New York
State, Fair, NC State Fair, Wines of the South, and Mid-Atlantic Region Competition to name
a few.
Travelling extensively, arranging tasting and educational opportunities wherever we
visited, opened her wine horizons and enhanced her abilities to pair food and wine. The
uniqueness of dining as you travel abroad creates an appreciation for wine and food
pairing and a hunger for more knowledge. Jane’s travels include: Italy, Germany, Austria,
Spain, Portugal, Greece, South Africa, Croatia, France, and Hungary. Traveling to Canada
(Niagara on the Peninsula, Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island)) Washington State (Yakima
Valley, Seattle), Oregon (Umpqua and Willamette Valley, and Hood River), California (from
Amador County down through Temecula and tasting rooms all along the way), New York –
Finger Lakes, Virginia (Mid Northern), North Carolina (Yakin Valley and beyond) and the
Northern Georgia Mountains.

Rege Duralia became intrigued with wine shortly after joining the American Wine
Society (AWS) in 1992. That association opened a door to amateur winemaking and
enrolling in Introduction to Winemaking, UC-Davis, a one semester long distance learning
course. He joined the Tasters Guild in 2002. Visits to wine growing regions of the world –
California, Oregon, Washington, North Carolina, Virginia, New York Finger Lakes, Ohio,
Michigan, Germany, Austria, Italy, Southern France, Hungary, Croatia, Canada, South Africa,
Spain, Portugal and Australia expanded his horizon of wine. These visits enabled him to
understand different grape growing and wine making methods as well as to learn firsthand
about wine varietal characteristics and stylistic differences influenced by terroir and
different winemaking techniques in the various growing regions. Rege became a Certified
Wine Judge in 2007 by successfully completing a three year course offered by the American
Wine Society and was recertified in 2012.
His judging career began in 2002 on Hilton Head Island for the Annual Wine Festival
Judging. Invitations to judge have come from the AWS Commercial and Amateur
competition, the Tasters Guild Consumer Judging and International Wine Judging, the South
Carolina State Fair, Atlantic Seaboard Competition, Mid-Atlantic Southeastern Wine
Competition, Wines of the South, New York State Fair and North Carolina State Fair.
What makes wine interesting is that there are many variable factors influencing its
production so that every opening of a bottle is a new adventure. It is the perfect beverage
for a meal any time of the day.

Linda King is a Certified International Wine Judge, Winemaker, Winery Consultant, and
Educator. Linda is a retired winemaker, last working for RagApple Lassie Vineyards in NC and has been a winemaker for over 40 years. She is an internationally certified wine judge. Linda has a consulting business titled “Linda King Consulting, LLC” which specializes in winemaking, wine appreciation and wine education. A more than 30 year member of the American Wine Society, Linda has served on that Board and ran the AWS Wine Judge Certification Program, and was voted Most Outstanding National Member in 1993.

Matthew Kristofik is Past Chairman of the American Wine Society Commercial Wine
Competition. Matt initially became interested in wine while stationed in Vallejo, California in the
early 1960’s. A longtime member of the American Wine Society, he chaired the Society’s
Commercial Wine Competition for twenty years as well as the Pennsylvania Winery Association
Competition. He has consulted and chaired the implementation of several amateur wine
competitions in the Pittsburgh area. Matt is actively involved in wine education as well as pairing wine with food. In recent years, he has coordinated wine tours to the Yadkin Valley of North Carolina to introduce that area to friends and fellow oenophiles. Matt served in the US Navy Submarine Service as a nuclear power plant operator. On completion of service, he graduated from St. Vincent College receiving a BS in Biology. He recently retired after over 30 years in neurosurgical research focusing on the treatment of brain tumors.

Annemarie Morse has a master’s degree in enology from Cornell University. She has
worked in the wine industry for over 10 years in various capacities; an assistant winemaker, wine educator, judge, sales and consulting. She is the initiator and chairperson for the Finger Lakes Chapter of the American Wine Society, (AWS). Annemarie has completed the Court of Master Sommeliers, Introductory Course and Exam and is an AWS certified wine judge, having judged in the following competitions: Finger Lakes International, Winemaker Magazine, New York State Fair, Big E Northeast Gold, Great Lakes and Eastern States as well as judging panels for Cornell University research. She is a passionate wine educator, instructing Cornell students, faculty, staff, Alumni and the public on wine education, appreciation, winemaking, blending, judging, business meal etiquette, cooking with wine and wine & food pairing. She is a published freelance wine and food writer.

Ron Natalie is a AWS Certified Wine Judge. He also holds WSET level 3 certification and is
certified as an aficionado of wine by Robert Parker and Kevin Zraly. He is an AWS life member and chapter chair. Ron developed his love of wine after running a marathon in Bordeaux. He lives in North Carolina with his equally wine-crazed wife.

Kevin Ostrowski is a former high school chemistry, physics, and math teacher, and a
retired QA/QC utility executive. He is the current Chapter Chair of the American Wine Society’s
(AWS) Beaver County, PA, chapter. An AWS certified wine judge, Kevin is also a Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) with the Society of Wine Educators, holds a Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 Award in Wine and Spirits (with Merit), and has completed level 1 Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers. He has enjoyed the privilege of judging many local and regional wine competitions. He will begin November 2019 as an Instructor for Wine Judge Certification Training Year 1 with the American Wine Society, and is an instructor of wine for Butler County Community College in Butler, PA. As a home wine maker, he has won several medals from both AWS and WineMaker magazine. Kevin Resides in Beaver, PA.

Nancy Slick is a long-term member of the American Wine Society and supporter of the
organization. She is a graduate of the Wine Judge Training Program and a Certified Wine Judge. Nancy also teaches in the program and has developed a specialty in ciders and meads in addition to wine. Additionally, she has presented many educational sessions on all aspects of wine and has judged in many competitions, both amateur and commercial. Nancy has worked many years in wine retail and is currently working in food service and enhancing and promoting their wine program. She has judged in many competitions, both amateur and commercial. Nancy resides in Maryland.

John Sporing is building on his passion for wine, travel and teaching, John founded A Life
Well Drunk. He regularly hosts bespoked wine tours around the world. Recently, these tours have included South Africa, Portugal, Argentina, as well as domestic destinations (California and Oregon). John holds certifications by the Society of Wine Educators (Certified Specialist of Wine), the Wine & Spirit Educational Trust (WSET Level 3), the Court of Master Sommeliers (Sommelier), the Sherry Regulatory Council (Certified Sherry Wine Specialist–Intermediate); and from the Center for Wine Origins (Wine Location Specialist).

Jeff Stabins is a Regional Vice President of the American Wine Society (AWS) and is an
AWS Certified Wine Judge. He is a Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) Diploma
student. Jeff is also on the Board of Directors of the Raise a Glass Foundation and is Director
of the Great American Amateur Wine Competition. Jeff has enjoyed judging in many wine
competitions for 12 years.

Pat Valas is an American Wine Society Certified Judge as well as being an instructor for
the AWS wine judge training program and, from 1995 to the present, has judged in many
wine competitions, including the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, American
Wine Society Commercial and Amateurs Competitions, Winemaker Magazine’s Amateur
competition, the New Jersey Governor’s Cup, the Pennsylvania Governor’s Cup, the
Pittsburgh AWS Regional Amateur Competition, the Maryland Wine Festival Amateur, Best
of Show Frederick County Fair Amateur, Montgomery County Fair Amateur and the
Maryland State Fair Amateur which included the Best of Show. Part of her early training
involved a summer job in the vineyards of G. Hamilton Mowbray in Westminster, MD
where she tied up vines and learned from this east coast master. She currently does freelance
wine consulting, wine writing and wine education. She holds a DeLong Century Club
certificate having tasted 100 different wine varietals and is close to her second 100. She
has traveled with the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine to various international
conferences and wine tastings in Provence, Bergerac, and Reims (Champagne) France;
Barcelona, Spain; Morges, Switzerland, London, England, Budapest, Hungary and most
recently Sonoma and Napa in Northern California. She especially enjoyed her Bordeaux
river cruise with Cooper Vineyard and explored Burgundy with them in Sept 2016 followed
by a Danube cruise with the AWS in spring 2017.

Anne Vercelli has worked with the Cloverdale Citrus Fair now called the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition, since 1987, most recently as its Assistant Director. Anne is
responsible for assisting in overall planning, organizing and implementing all aspects of the
competition with primary responsibility for receiving, coding, and presenting the over 5,000 wines received each year. She is responsible for a staff of 100 volunteers.

Vercelli has worked as the Coordinator of the Professional Food Competitions of the Sonoma
County Harvest Fair since 1981. She has elevated the food competitions from 2 judgings to 10
judgings with entries increasing each year. She is responsible for 12 chef demonstrations duringthe Harvest Fair week-end. She is also a Professional Wine Judge having served on a judging panel for the International Women’s Wine Competition in Santa Rosa, California.
Anne has been an instructor since 1981 at Santa Rosa Junior College where she currently teaches 6 classes in Italian Cuisine in the Culinary Department. She also assists in the College’s Agricultural Department where she teaches Wine Service and Hospitality and Sonoma County Wine Appellations classes. She is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America (C.I.A.) with an A.O.S degree. Upon graduation she received the Richard Keating award “Most Likely To Succeed”. She was also awarded the coveted position of “Fellowship” in the Escoffier Room at the C.I.A. Anne received her B.A. in Food and Nutrition from California State University, Sacramento.

Curtis Allred is a popular fixture in the Loudoun food and drink scene, having
managed Shoe’s, Cup & Cork, and Fireworks Pizza. Curtis is a certified Sommelier and
Cicerone (the beer equivalent) who cut his teeth in the Manhattan food scene before
working for a mix of fine dining and casual establishments in the greater DC area. He is
now the co-owner and general manager for Delirium Café in Leesburg, Virginia.

Rex Bambling lives in northern Virginia and belongs to the NoLoCo chapter of the
American Wine Society. Rex is the competition coordinator of the AWS national
competition. He is a graduate of the AWS Judge Training Program and is a Certified Wine
Judge. He also belongs to the Knights of the Vine. He and his wife enjoy judging wines in
local, regional, and national competitions.

Melissa Bartlett has a passion for wine, which led her to seek to a career at
Virginia’s favorite winery, Pearmund Cellars. She worked as one of the winery managers
and as the winery sommelier. She is a long-term member of the AWS and served for three
years as Chapter Chair for the John Marshall chapter in Virginia. Melissa is a Certified Judge
through the AWS Wine Judge Certification Program and a Certified Sommelier through the
International Wine Guild. Melissa is a free-lance wine consultant and educator.

Lauri Boetcher has been involved in the wine industry for 27 years and have been judging
wines for 20 years. Wine sensory classes through Penn State and regularly held tasting sessionsand discussions of wines from around the world have helped develop and fine tune her judging abilities. In addition, she enjoys being part of a Winemaker’s Roundtable which meets monthly to help identity both positive and off notes in wines before bottling to contribute toward a better end product for consumers. Judging experiences have ranged from state fair amateur wine competitions to major commercial wine competitions. Each new wine is a fresh experience!

Jennifer Crafts joined the American Wine Society (AWS) in 2002, and has been a
member of several of the AWS chapters in Virginia. She is a graduate of the AWS Wine
Judge Certification Program. She has judged commercial and amateur wine competitions
each year at local, state, and international competitions. Jennifer is a Gentle Lady of the
Nation’s Capital Chapter of the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine (KOV), and has
attended KOV international conferences in France and the U.S. She joined the Board of
Directors of the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association in 2016. She travels internationally
with her husband to taste wines, and lives in Lovettsville, VA.

JoAnn DeGaglia is a Certified Specialist of Wine and a member of the Society of Wine
Educators as well as a Certified Advanced Sommelier earning both an American and Italian
Wine Specialist Degree from the North American Sommelier Assn with honors. She is a
popular Wine Educator and Associate Instructor at the Westchester Wine School in New
York and the North American Sommelier Association in Los Angeles. Earning her Wine
Judge Certification from the American Wine Society she has judged at numerous
competitions including the Finger Lakes International, Indy International, Texas Lone Star,
The Big E among others. She works part time at two of the Hudson Valleys great wine
destinations, Brotherhood, Americas Oldest Winery and the Wine Spectators award
winning Glenmere Mansion in Chester New York. She is a self-proclaimed wine disciple
who loves the people, the places and the wines of the world.

Jane Duralia has been a member of the American Wine Society (AWS) since 1992,
gradually learning about the many grape varietals. She became fascinated with wine
structure variability and how various wine making techniques and practices affect the
various result in a specific varietal characteristic and how it presents in the bottle.
Becoming more involved with AWS opened educational doors and she was thirsty for wine
knowledge from all parts of the world. Jane passed the introductory Sommelier course and
then followed up with the three year AWS certified Judge course, and is now a Certified
Wine Judge. After this she was hooked; knowing how to evaluate wines hence appreciating
them even more. Jane enjoys judging an average of 10 -14 competitions annually around
the country; Tasters’ Guild International, INDY International, Atlantic Seaboard, New York
State, Fair, NC State Fair, Wines of the South, and Mid-Atlantic Region Competition to name
a few.
Travelling extensively, arranging tasting and educational opportunities wherever we
visited, opened her wine horizons and enhanced her abilities to pair food and wine. The
uniqueness of dining as you travel abroad creates an appreciation for wine and food
pairing and a hunger for more knowledge. Jane’s travels include: Italy, Germany, Austria,
Spain, Portugal, Greece, South Africa, Croatia, France, and Hungary. Traveling to Canada
(Niagara on the Peninsula, Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island)) Washington State (Yakima
Valley, Seattle), Oregon (Umpqua and Willamette Valley, and Hood River), California (from
Amador County down through Temecula and tasting rooms all along the way), New York –
Finger Lakes, Virginia (Mid Northern), North Carolina (Yakin Valley and beyond) and the
Northern Georgia Mountains.

Rege Duralia became intrigued with wine shortly after joining the American Wine
Society (AWS) in 1992. That association opened a door to amateur winemaking and
enrolling in Introduction to Winemaking, UC-Davis, a one semester long distance learning
course. He joined the Tasters Guild in 2002. Visits to wine growing regions of the world –
California, Oregon, Washington, North Carolina, Virginia, New York Finger Lakes, Ohio,
Michigan, Germany, Austria, Italy, Southern France, Hungary, Croatia, Canada, South Africa,
Spain, Portugal and Australia expanded his horizon of wine. These visits enabled him to
understand different grape growing and wine making methods as well as to learn firsthand
about wine varietal characteristics and stylistic differences influenced by terroir and
different winemaking techniques in the various growing regions. Rege became a Certified
Wine Judge in 2007 by successfully completing a three year course offered by the American
Wine Society and was recertified in 2012.
His judging career began in 2002 on Hilton Head Island for the Annual Wine Festival
Judging. Invitations to judge have come from the AWS Commercial and Amateur
competition, the Tasters Guild Consumer Judging and International Wine Judging, the South
Carolina State Fair, Atlantic Seaboard Competition, Mid-Atlantic Southeastern Wine
Competition, Wines of the South, New York State Fair and North Carolina State Fair.
What makes wine interesting is that there are many variable factors influencing its
production so that every opening of a bottle is a new adventure. It is the perfect beverage
for a meal any time of the day.

Andrew Hodson is currently the owner and CEO of Saddleback Farm LCC and Veritas
Vineyards and Winery in Afton, Virginia. His early training was in medicine and he holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from Bristol University in the United Kingdom. He is also a member of the Royal College of Physicians and a member of the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry. He retired from general practice in 2000 and moved from Florida to Afton, Virginia, where he purchased Saddleback Farm in 1999 and built the winery the following year and now has 52 acres under cultivation and produces about 14,000 cases of wine a year. He was the wine-maker from2000 to 2003. Currently his daughter Emily Pelton is the wine-maker, but he assists in the blending trials. He has been very active in the promotion of Virginia wine both in this country and aboard. He participates in several wine competitions every year and in the annual Virginia Wine Festival. He has attended and supported the Virginia Wine Experience in London in 2007 and later also the London International Wine Fair 2009-2013. He has worked with Governor McDonnell’s trade mission to the United Kingdom in July 2010 to promote Virginia wine. He currently holds the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Spirits, is a Certified Specialist in Wine (CSW from the Society of Wine Educators, as well as a French Wine Scholar (FWS).

Linda King is a Certified International Wine Judge, Winemaker, Winery Consultant, and
Educator. Linda is a retired winemaker, last working for RagApple Lassie Vineyards in NC and has been a winemaker for over 40 years. She is an internationally certified wine judge. Linda has a consulting business titled “Linda King Consulting, LLC” which specializes in winemaking, wine appreciation and wine education. A more than 30 year member of the American Wine Society, Linda has served on that Board and ran the AWS Wine Judge Certification Program, and was voted Most Outstanding National Member in 1993.

Matthew Kristofik is Past Chairman of the American Wine Society Commercial Wine
Competition. Matt initially became interested in wine while stationed in Vallejo, California in the
early 1960’s. A longtime member of the American Wine Society, he chaired the Society’s
Commercial Wine Competition for twenty years as well as the Pennsylvania Winery Association
Competition. He has consulted and chaired the implementation of several amateur wine
competitions in the Pittsburgh area. Matt is actively involved in wine education as well as pairing wine with food. In recent years, he has coordinated wine tours to the Yadkin Valley of North Carolina to introduce that area to friends and fellow oenophiles. Matt served in the US Navy Submarine Service as a nuclear power plant operator. On completion of service, he graduated from St. Vincent College receiving a BS in Biology. He recently retired after over 30 years in neurosurgical research focusing on the treatment of brain tumors.

Kristen Lindelow is a graduate of the American Wine Society Wine Judge
Certification Program, and has been judging wine competitions across the U.S. for a number
of years, including the Denver International Wine Competition, Indy International, and
Wines of the South. She is currently a Regional Vice President for the American Wine
Society (AWS), a Trustee for the AWS Educational Foundation, and is employed by Church
Street Wine Shoppe in Huntsville, AL as Wine Educator. Kristen has also achieved
certification as a French Wine Scholar, a Certified Specialist of Wine, WSET II, and a
California Wine Appellation Specialist. She is currently studying for the Italian Wine
Specialist and Bourgogne Master exams. The most fun she has with wine is teaching and
now owns and runs the Tennessee Valley Wine Academy –for Wine education. Uncorked.
Mickey Parish completed his doctoral degree at North Carolina State University
many years ago where his dissertation research involved assessing yeast fermentations of
muscadine and hybrid wines. He annually judges the Florida State Fair International Wine
Competition in Tampa, the Wines of the South competition in Knoxville, and the Maryland
Governors Cup in Baltimore. He is a professional member of the American Society for
Enology and Viticulture, and the International Association for Food Protection in which he
serves as President for 2017-18. Mickey works at the Senior Science Advisor for the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition in College
Park, MD.

Nancy Slick is a long-term member of the American Wine Society and supporter of the
organization. She is a graduate of the Wine Judge Training Program and a Certified Wine Judge. Nancy also teaches in the program and has developed a specialty in ciders and meads in addition to wine. Additionally, she has presented many educational sessions on all aspects of wine and has judged in many competitions, both amateur and commercial. Nancy has worked many years in wine retail and is currently working in food service and enhancing and promoting their wine program. She has judged in many competitions, both amateur and commercial. Nancy resides in Maryland.

Pat Valas is an American Wine Society Certified Judge as well as being an instructor for
the AWS wine judge training program and, from 1995 to the present, has judged in many
wine competitions, including the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, American
Wine Society Commercial and Amateurs Competitions, Winemaker Magazine’s Amateur
competition, the New Jersey Governor’s Cup, the Pennsylvania Governor’s Cup, the
Pittsburgh AWS Regional Amateur Competition, the Maryland Wine Festival Amateur, Best
of Show Frederick County Fair Amateur, Montgomery County Fair Amateur and the
Maryland State Fair Amateur which included the Best of Show. Part of her early training
involved a summer job in the vineyards of G. Hamilton Mowbray in Westminster, MD
where she tied up vines and learned from this east coast master. She currently does freelance
wine consulting, wine writing and wine education. She holds a DeLong Century Club
certificate having tasted 100 different wine varietals and is close to her second 100. She
has traveled with the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine to various international
conferences and wine tastings in Provence, Bergerac, and Reims (Champagne) France;
Barcelona, Spain; Morges, Switzerland, London, England, Budapest, Hungary and most
recently Sonoma and Napa in Northern California. She especially enjoyed her Bordeaux
river cruise with Cooper Vineyard and explored Burgundy with them in Sept 2016 followed
by a Danube cruise with the AWS in spring 2017.

Anne Vercelli has worked with the Cloverdale Citrus Fair now called the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition, since 1987, most recently as its Assistant Director. Anne is
responsible for assisting in overall planning, organizing and implementing all aspects of the
competition with primary responsibility for receiving, coding, and presenting the over 5,000 wines received each year. She is responsible for a staff of 100 volunteers.
Vercelli has worked as the Coordinator of the Professional Food Competitions of the Sonoma
County Harvest Fair since 1981. She has elevated the food competitions from 2 judgings to 10
judgings with entries increasing each year. She is responsible for 12 chef demonstrations during the Harvest Fair week-end. She is also a Professional Wine Judge having served on a judging panel for the International Women’s Wine Competition in Santa Rosa, California.
Anne has been an instructor since 1981 at Santa Rosa Junior College where she currently teaches 6 classes in Italian Cuisine in the Culinary Department. She also assists in the College’s Agricultural Department where she teaches Wine Service and Hospitality and Sonoma County Wine Appellations classes. She is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America (C.I.A.) with an A.O.S degree. Upon graduation she received the Richard Keating award “Most Likely To Succeed”. She was also awarded the coveted position of “Fellowship” in the Escoffier Room at the C.I.A. Anne received her B.A. in Food and Nutrition from California State University, Sacramento.

Leanne Wheeler has been judging amateur and commercial wine competitions since 2010. She is a member of the American Wine Society (AWS) where she currently serves on the
Board of Directors. Leanne is an AWS Certified Wine Judge and teaches an introductory wine
course at the annual American Wine Society National Conference. Leanne has completed levels one and two of the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) program, passing both with
distinction. Ms. Wheeler is serves as the competition Director for the Amenti del Vino
International Wine Competition which is in its 24th year. She currently resides in South Windsor, Connecticut and enjoys traveling to wine regions to satiate her thirst for knowledge.