The Indy International Wine awards were announced on June 28, 2008. As one of the largest wine competition in the US, the Indy International brought in over 3,200 wines from 15 countries. The Indy is also the largest amateur competition in the country and holds the distinction of the largest fruit wine competition.
Seventy-five judges traveled to Indianapolis from across North America to review approximately 120 wines a day based on appearance, aroma and aftertaste. Judges receive the wines in numbered glasses, lessening the possibility of recognizing a wine by its bottle and label art. Wines can be awarded a gold, silver, bronze or no medal. The Indy International Wine Competition is sponsored by the Indiana State Fair and coordinated by the Indiana Wine Grape Council at Purdue University.
A first time competitor, DnA Vintners of La Crosse, WI received bronze medals for all three of their wines: Frost Watch Red and Sweet Paradise in the blended fruit category and Chocolate Paradise in the natural flavored wine category. Diana Hobson states that "wine sales and positive feedback from customers as well as support from retailers provided the impetus to enter the competition."
The ninth annual Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. Rochester New York, announced medal winners for their 2009 competition. Local winemaker Diana Hobson won bronze medals for Frost Watch Red, a semi sweet cranberry wine and Sweet Paradise, a sweet cranberry wine. Ms. Hobson’s third entry, Chocolate Paradise won a silver medal. The chocolate infused cranberry wine is considered “dessert in a glass”.
Nearly 500 wineries from 14 countries entered the competition. Forty five Wine Judges from 6 countries participated in rating the wine. The Wine Judges represented Distributors, Educators, Enologists, Sommeliers, Restaurateurs, Winemakers and Writers.
This event is the world’s largest charitable wine competition and all proceeds benefit Camp Good Days. This not for profit organization is dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life threatening challenges.
Ms. Hobson became aware of winning when a Wine Judge called to inquire where to purchase the wine in the Rochester New York.