Kent Callaghan of Callaghan Vineyards in Elgin won seven awards from the premiere panel of wine judges this year, all of them 2019 vintages, at the 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (SFCWC), which was completed on March 5. There were over 50 judges, reviewing approximately 5,800 wines from over 1,000 North American wineries. Since its inception over 22 years ago, the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (SFCWC) has grown to become one of the world’s most highly publicized and well-respected wine competitions, offering both large-scale and boutique wineries the opportunity to showcase their wines on a larger level.
Callaghan earned ‘Double Gold’ for Sonoita Back Lot, ‘Gold’ for Willcox Red Dessert Wine, Arizona Waverly’s, and Arizona Lisa’s; ‘Silver’ for Sonoita Cabernet Franc and Sonoita Back Lot; and ‘Bronze’ for Sonoita M Block.
Callaghan also received excellent reviews from the Purely Domestic Wine Report who recently rated 18 of his wines, with the majority receiving scores from 91 to 93 points. The independent wine review focuses primarily California, Oregon, and Washington wines but Arizona wines are now making the cut.
Also, raise a glass to sisters Megan Stranik and Shannon Zouzoulas at Hops and Vines in Sonoita. They were awarded ‘Silver’ for their 2018 Sonoita Zinfandel (fortified) and Sonoita Red Blend, and ‘Bronze’ for the 2018 Sonoita Grenache (Unfiltered).
Village of Elgin winemaker Dr. Garrison Elam earned a silver medal and 91 points from the American Wine Society for his Arizona Bourbon Barrel Rested Cabernet. The American Wine Society competition for commercial wine, now including spirits, has been held annually for 36 years.
Join the PRT in a well-deserved shout-out to Kent, Megan, Shannon, and Gary for their dedication and success in receiving such honored awards.