Two Northwest Michigan wineries brought home the first of the year's crop--not of grapes, but awards.
At the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition,
Black Star Farms and
Chateau Fontaine both received several awards for their 2010 and 2011 wines.
Out of entries from 22 countries and all 50 U.S. states, Black Star Farms and Chateau Fontaine each can brag of a best in class. Black Star's 2008 A Capella Ice Wine was given best in class for ice wines, and awarded the Crystal Grape Award. Chateau Fontaine was awarded best Riesling for its Dry White Riesling 100% from 2011.
Black Star also had two gold medals, for its 2010 Arcturos Riesling and 2010 Arcturos Cabernet Franc; a silver medal for its 2010 Arcturos Dry Riesling; and two bronzes, for the 2010 Arcturos Pinot Noir and 2010 Arcturos Late Harvest Riesling.
Chateau Fontaine added a silver medal to its collection for its Pinot Blanc/Weissburgunder of 2011, and a bronze for its 2010 Chardonnay.
"These wines showcase examples of what we in this region do so well," says Lee Lutes, Black Star Farms' head winemaker. "The red wines only continue to improve, as we take on ever greater knowledge of our fruit sources and sites, and the Rieslings continue to benefit from our lengthy cooler seasons and mineral-driven soils. What these accolades do is reinforce so much of what we are striving for in this dynamic grape-growing region."
The competition, held in New York's Finger Lakes region, is the largest charitable wine competition in North America, with proceeds going to benefit Camp Good Days and Special Times.
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Lee Lutes, Black Star Farms
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