Several Finger Lakes wineries were recognized among the best in the world during the 26th annual Finger Lakes International Wine & Spirits Competition, which also serves as a fundraiser for Camp Good Days & Special Times.
Held annually in Rochester, the competition featured about 1,100 wines and spirits that were evaluated through a blind tasting by a panel of sommeliers, winemakers, wine writers, spirits judges, and educators. Judges awarded Bronze, Silver, Gold, Double Gold, and Platinum medals based solely on quality.
Among the local winners, Anthony Road Wine Company earned Best Dry Riesling for its 2019 Art Series Riesling. Lakewood Vineyards received Best Medium Sweet Riesling for its 2024 Full Monty Riesling, while Three Brothers Wineries and Estates won Best Non-Dry Riesling with its 2025 First Degree Semi-Dry Riesling.
Other Finger Lakes wineries receiving “Best in Class” honors included Montezuma Winery & Hidden Marsh Distillery for Best Sparkling Pétillant Naturel, Keuka Spring Vineyards for Best Non-Traditional Sparkling Wine, Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards for Best Rosé, Casa Larga Vineyards for Best Ice Wine, and Stone Age Winery for Best Blush.
Outside the Finger Lakes, wineries and distilleries from across the United States and Canada also received Best in Class awards in categories ranging from bourbon and whiskey to mead, sake, and dessert wines.
Competition organizers said the event has become one of the world’s largest charitable wine competitions, with proceeds benefiting Camp Good Days’ free programs and services for children, families, and adults affected by cancer or sickle cell anemia.
The organization will celebrate this year’s competition during its 26th Annual Wine & Spirits Auction Gala on Oct. 30, where guests will be able to sample and bid on many of the medal-winning wines and spirits.
