News Release
July 20, 2010
Stone Hill Winery Takes the Governor's Cup and Seven Best of Class Honors
The coveted 2010 Missouri Governor's Cup, recognized as the best wine in Missouri, went to Stone Hill Winery's 2009 Vignoles at the Missouri Wine Competition held last week in Columbia. With 242 entries submitted from 35 Missouri wineries, this recognition is the second consecutive win for Stone Hill Winery, who earned the top spot in 2009.
"Stone Hill Winery's dedication not only shows in their business but in their commitment to producing exemplary wines," said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler. "Stone Hill's repeat performance of winning the Governor's Cup and numerous other awards was not an easy feat considering the many great wines our state has to offer
The Governor's Cup winning Vignoles was selected from a field of 12 Best of Class honorees including:
- Sparkling - Brut, Les Bourgeois Vineyards
- Dry White - 2009 Dry Vignoles, Stone Hill Winery
- Semi-Dry White - 2009 Steinberg White, Stone Hill Winery
- Sweet White - 2009 Vignoles, Stone Hill Winery
- Dry Red - 2008 Cross J Vineyard Norton, Stone Hill Winery
- Semi-Dry Red - 2009 Steinberg Red, Stone Hill Winery
- Sweet Red - Mellow Red, Pirtle Winery
- Blush - 2009 Spring Rose, Chaumette Winery
- Fruit - Blackberry Mead, Pirtle Winery
- Late Harvest/Ice - 2008 Late Harvest Vignoles, Stone Hill Winery
- Dessert/Fortified - 2006 Port, Stone Hill Winery
- Distilled - Peach "Eau de Vie" Brandy, Montelle Winery
"Vignoles wines are made from one of Missouri's most versatile grapes and are a compliment to any occasion," said Jim Anderson, executive director of the Missouri Wine and Grape Board. "This award symbolizes Stone Hill's commitment to their industry, the quality of a true vignoles and excellence in winemaking."
The awards were based on blind tastings by 10 expert judges from around the U.S, including two from California and two from New York. Judges awarded 41 Gold medals, 75 Silver medals and 72 Bronze medals during the two-day competition. The Governor's Cup winner was revealed during the 2010 Missouri Wine Governor's Cup Awards Presentation on July 15, immediately following the competition. The event, An Evening in the Vineyard, featured the Best of Class and Gold medal award-winning wines from the competition served with a selection of locally-sourced foods.
"I am ecstatic about the success we had at this year's competition. It shows how important it is to have a good technical team," said Jon Held, vice president and general manager of Stone Hill Winery. "Especially in a difficult, rainy year, we are grateful to have our viticulture and enology team. Their work is evident in our success."
The 2010 award winning wines will be on display in the Agriculture Building at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia from August 12-22. For a complete list of winners visit www.missouriwine.org.