The Finger Lakes International Wine & Spirits Competition marked its 26th year with about 1,100 entries judged in support of Camp Good Days & Special Times.
Organizers said the Rochester-based competition, which raises money for Camp Good Days, again drew wines and spirits from a wide field of producers and awarded medals based on blind judging.
Judges included sommeliers, winemakers, wine writers, experienced spirits judges and wine and spirit educators. Entries were presented with only the varietal or blend identified, excluding geography, vintage and price point to preserve impartiality, according to organizers.
“What makes the FLIWC so special is that it brings together excellence in the wine and spirits industry while supporting a cause that changes lives,” said Jamie Varble, event director of the competition. “Every entry, sponsorship, and volunteer contribution helps support the mission of Camp Good Days and allows us to continue providing free programs and services to those impacted by cancer or sickle cell anemia.”
Awards included bronze, silver and gold medals. Double gold medals were awarded for unanimous judging decisions, while platinum medals were reserved for wines or spirits showing extraordinary distinction during best-in-class evaluation.
Several New York producers were recognized in best-in-class categories, including Anthony Road Wine Company for best dry riesling, Lakewood Vineyards for best medium sweet riesling, Three Brothers Wineries and Estates for best non-dry riesling, Montezuma Winery & Hidden Marsh Distillery for best sparkling petillant naturel, Keuka Spring Vineyards for best sparkling non-traditional, Johnson Estate Winery for best sparkling traditional and native wine, Casa Larga Vineyards for best ice wine, Stone Age Winery for best blush and Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards for best rose.
The competition will be followed by Camp Good Days’ 26th annual Wine & Spirits Auction Gala on Friday, Oct. 30, where guests will be able to taste and bid on many medal-winning entries.
More information about winning entries and the gala is available at www.FLIWC-CGD.com or by calling 585-624-5555.
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