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A Golden Year at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition

2 Best of Class, 2 Platinum, a Double Gold, and 3 Gold awards.

This month, we had the honor of participating in the 2025 Finger Lakes International Wine & Spirits Competition. Not only is this competition an internationally recognized competition, 100% of the proceeds generated go directly to Camp Good Days & Special Times. Camp Good Days is a not-for-profit dedicated to assisting families affected by cancer and sickle cell anemia.

This year, the 2025 Finger Lakes International Wine & Spirits Competition had over 1,000 entries from more than 30 states and 5 countries. Safe to say, excellence and craftmanship were on full display. Due to the hardwork of our vineyard and winemaking team and our “Bud to Bottle” process here at Johnson Estate Winery, our wines stood out in front of the competition.

We’re incredibly proud to announce the top honors bestowed upon our wines:

BEST IN CLASS

Ives | Best In Class (Native Red)

Old Oak Gold | Best in Class (Dessert Fortified)

We are proud to announce that two of our selections were honored with “Best in Class” awards. Our semi-sweet Ives, which took top honors for Native Red, is celebrated for its brilliant garnet color and distinct fruit character that beautifully mimics a traditional Lambrusco. Joining it on the podium for Dessert Fortified is Old Oak Gold, a smooth and decadent experience crafted from estate-grown grapes and aged for over a year in Kentucky bourbon barrels.

Platinum Medal

Sparkling Traminette | Platinum

Concord | Platinum

Our Platinum Medal winners showcase both technical precision and regional character. Our Sparkling Traminette is produced using the traditional méthode champenoise technique, delivering a bright, fruity profile with an intense aroma of passion fruit, guava, and rose. Joining it in the Platinum circle is our Concord, a regionally recognized and unique selection that offers a pronounced, classic grape flavor.

Double Gold Medal

Vidal Blanc Ice Wine | Double Gold

Our Vidal Blanc Ice Wine has been honored with a Double Gold Medal, distinguishing itself as a standout in its category. This well-balanced and complex selection is defined by traditional honey and pear notes, offering a refined profile that captures the essence of a premium ice wine. Learn more about Ice Wine by visiting our Ice Wine Page.

Gold Medal

Chambourcin Ice Wine | Gold

Chambourcin | Gold

Marechal Foch | Gold

Rounding out our Gold Medal recipients are three distinct expressions of our estate-grown grapes. Our Chambourcin Ice Wine offers a unique medium red-rosé profile featuring delicate apple and cherry notes alongside traditional berry characteristics. In the dry category, our Chambourcin stands as a classic, lush red crafted from our French-hybrid vines. Finally, our Marechal Foch continues to be a favorite; as our number one seller, this rich, dark red remains both fresh and mellow, perfectly balancing its semi-dry character.

Ready To Taste?

We invite you to join us to taste these award-winning wines among others in our historic tasting room. Located in the heart of Lake Erie Wine Country, the winery is open for tastings seven days a week.

11A Golden Year at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition