The North Carolina Wine & Grape Council marked the 20th anniversary of the North Carolina Wine Competition by awarding more than 275 medals to local producers. The event brought together judges, winemakers, and experts from across the country to evaluate over 300 wines from more than 39 producers in the state.
“North Carolina continues to produce award-winning wines, ciders and mead products as evidenced by this recent competition,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “This year’s event brought together top judges, winemakers and experts from across the country to evaluate more than 300 wines from over 39 North Carolina producers.”
The competition featured a variety of wine styles, including traditional European varietals, native Muscadine grapes, and hybrid blends.
Top honors at this year’s event included Hinnant Family Vineyards of Pine Level for Best in Show ‘Muscadine’ with their 2024 Dangerous Waters White; Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards of Hendersonville for Best in Show ‘Vinifera/Hybrid’ with their 2024 Albarino; and Noble Cider of Asheville for Best in Show ‘Cider/Mead/Dessert’ with Spice Merchant.
Other category winners were Stardust Cellar for Best Mead (Country Peach), Shadow Springs Vineyard for Best Single Varietal Red Vinifera (2021 Petit Verdot) and Best Hybrid White (2024 Seyval Blanc), Point Lookout Vineyards for Best Red Blend Vinifera (2021 Cliffield), Windsor Run Cellars for Best Dessert/Fortified (2015 Midnight Run Grand Reserve), Jolo Winery & Vineyards for Best Hybrid Red (2023 Pilot Fog), Rock of Ages Winery & Vineyard for Best Fruit Wine (NV Sangria), and Noble Cider again for Best Cider (Spice Merchant).
Sheryl McDavid, an American Wine Society Certified Judge who has participated in the competition since 2005, was recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation from the N.C. Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services and Commissioner Steve Troxler.
“North Carolina’s wine industry continues to thrive because of the talent, dedication, and community behind it. It’s an honor to recognize those who have shaped this journey — from vineyard to glass,” said Nicole Chesney, executive director of the N.C. Wine & Grape Council.
The North Carolina Wine & Grape Council works to promote growth in the state’s wine sector through education and marketing support. With over 200 wineries and vineyards statewide, North Carolina is among the top ten wine-producing states nationally. More information about winners can be found at www.ncwine.org.
