Discover Culinary Excellence: 20 Award-Winning Chefs and Wineries Highlight Local Festival!

The North Coast Wine Challenge this year was a big win for Balletto Vineyards. The Santa Rosa winery bagged three Best of Class awards, four double gold medals, and a gold medal for its wines. Their impressive lineup included the 2019 Sparkling Brut Rosé and the 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, alongside multiple Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.

This year’s competition received a record 1,147 entries from counties like Sonoma, Marin, and Napa, making Balletto’s triumph even more significant. They have participated in this challenge since it started 13 years ago. John Balletto, who runs the vineyard with his wife, Terri, highlighted their commitment to the local community. “Supporting our local community and celebrating the incredible talent in Northern California has always been at the heart of what we do,” he shared.

Wine lovers can enjoy Balletto’s award-winning selections at the North Coast Wine & Food Festival on June 14 at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts. Attendees will also get to savor delectable dishes from 20 top chefs, including Marc-Henri Jean-Baptiste of Maison Porcella. Chef Jean-Baptiste is excited to showcase his new catering programs, emphasizing the festival’s role in celebrating the region’s culinary diversity.

The North Coast Wine Challenge took place on April 1-2, where expert judges blind-tasted various wines by category. Each judge provided a score, and the wines that received unanimous gold votes were honored with double gold medals. Competing for the third time, Brooks Note Winery from Petaluma won a double gold for its 2023 Petaluma Gap Pinot Noir.

Owner Garry Brooks expressed pride in the event’s local focus. For small wineries like his, participation is a valuable investment. The entry fee of $85 per wine, along with shipping expenses and donated bottles for the festival, comes with an invaluable return: relationships. “Building connections is what it’s all about,” Brooks remarked. His winery produces only 2,500 cases a year, making every opportunity to engage with new customers count.

Experts argue that events like these are essential for brand building. According to a recent survey by the Sonoma County Vintners, nearly 80% of wineries felt participation in such competitions positively impacted their visibility and sales over time. It may take a few years, but consistent presence at local festivals helps newer wineries grow their customer base.

As the North Coast Wine & Food Festival nears, there’s already a buzz on social media about this celebration of wine and food. People are sharing their excitement for the winning wines and chef showcases, creating a vibrant community around this event.

These competitions are more than just awards; they are moments that foster connections and community spirit in Northern California. The festival is likely to sell out quickly, making early ticket purchase a wise choice for those eager to indulge in the region’s rich offerings.



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