The San Francisco International Wine Competition, now one of the most prestigious wine judgings in the world, evaluated 2596 wines from 22 states and 14 other countries June 27 and 28 at San Francisco's Park Hyatt Hotel.  The 45 judges gave top honors to: Joseph Phelps Vineyard's 1995 Insignia ($75), "best of show" red wine; Zaca Mesa's 1996 Roussane ($17), "best of show" white wine; and Gallo of Sonoma Winery, winner of the Seventh Annual Bon Appetit Magazine "Winery of the Year," based on most medals won.  The number of wines entered is the most in the history of this event and believed to be the largest of any wine competition in the world.

This is the second "Winery of the Year" award for Gallo Sonoma Winery and the second sweepstakes award for Joseph Phelps Vineyard,  previously winning for its "Le Mistral."

There were several other top awards, including best wine in each varietal category. Those red wines honored: "Best Cabernet Sauvignon," Plam Vineyards  Winery 1995 Vintner's Reserve, ($30); "Best Pinot Noir," Chateau St. Jean, 1995, Durell Carneros, ($30); "Best Zinfandel," Gallo of Sonoma, 1996 Stefani Dry Creek Valley ($16); and "Best Other Red", Benziger Family Winery, 1996 Barbera Imagery Series, Wildwood, Sonoma ($22).

"Best" white varietals: "Best Pinot Blanc", Amity Vineyards 1997 Willamette Valley ($12); "Best Riesling", Weingutt Kesselstatt, 1989 Riesling Beerenauslese ($140); and "Best Sauvignon Blanc", St. Supery Vineyards and Winery, 1997 Dollarhide Ranch, Napa ($10). No award for "Best Chardonnay" was given.

In addition, there were 53 double gold medals awarded, 71 gold medals, 342 silver medals and 586 bronze awards.

Under the direction of wine and food authority Anthony Dias Blue, wine and spirits editor of Bon Appetit Magazine, the competition, now in its 17th year, has become one of the most important wine judgings in the world and, as a result, has gained world-wide attention.  Blue noted, "this competition is known for its rigorous judging standards and, therefore, we award a smaller
percentage of double gold and gold medals than at most competitions. It is interesting to not that this year produced 13 more double gold medals and 15 more gold medals than last year with 250 more wines entered.  With almost 2600 wines to evaluate, our judges had their work cut out and I appreciate all their time, focus and dedication to the event."  Blue also noted with pride and appreciation the event's sponsors:  Bon Appetit Magazine, Visa, Mercedes Benz, AmericanAirlines, KGO Radio, San Francisco Convention and Visitor's Bureau, The Park Hyatt Hotel, Semifreddi's Bakery and SuperShuttle.

This fall, wine lovers will have an exciting and unique opportunity to taste the double gold and gold medal winning wines on September 25 at the Park Hyatt's historic Banking Hall in San Francisco's financial district.  Tickets are $40 in advance and may be purchased by calling 800/551-0455.