LEXINGTON, Ky. – Four Kentucky wineries were honored with the prestigious Commissioner’s Cup at the 2024 Kentucky Commonwealth Wine Competition, held at the University of Kentucky’s South Farm in Lexington. The competition, now in its 12th year, celebrated the growth and diversity of Kentucky’s wine industry, with wineries from across the state vying for top honors.
“This year’s competition highlighted the exceptional talent and craftsmanship within Kentucky’s wine industry,” said Jonathan Shell, Commissioner of Agriculture. “I congratulate all the wineries that competed and earned medals, showcasing the finest wines our state has to offer.”
A panel of wine professionals blind-judged 86 wines submitted by 17 wineries across Kentucky. The competition recognizes wines that demonstrate outstanding quality, use of Kentucky-grown fruit, and expert winemaking. Wines were judged based on clarity, varietal typicity, integration, expressiveness, complexity, and overall quality.
This year, a total of 64 medals were awarded, ranging from gold to bronze. Notably, 23 of the medal-winning wines were crafted with at least 75 percent Kentucky-grown fruit, underscoring the state’s increasing prominence in the wine industry.
Among the top honors, the Commissioner’s Cup is awarded to wines that earned gold medals and exemplified Kentucky’s finest winemaking characteristics. The 2024 Commissioner’s Cup recipients are as follows:
Best Red Wine: Norton, Gunpowder Creek Vineyards (Union)
Best White Wine: Chardonnay, Talon Winery (Lexington)
Best Rosé/Blush Wine: Bluegrass Blush, Talon Winery (Lexington)
Best Sweet/Dessert/Fruit Wine: Sweet Italian Red, Purple Toad Winery (Paducah)
Best Boutique Wine: Traminette, Reid’s Livery Winery (Alvaton)
Several wineries were multiple-time winners in this year’s competition. Reid’s Livery Winery earned its seventh Commissioner’s Cup, Talon Winery secured its sixth and seventh Cups, Purple Toad Winery claimed its third, and Gunpowder Creek Vineyards received its second.
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture offers a virtual guide to the state’s wineries and craft breweries, helping consumers discover local tasting rooms and events. The Drink KY progressive web app allows users to explore wineries and earn rewards for visits.
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