An impressive group of judges gathered Tuesday to evaluate a record number of entries in the 35th annual Michigan Wine and Spirits Competition in East Lansing.
In a twist this year, sparkling wines made a strong showing in the sweepstakes list — think L. Mawby Vineyards — and a lesser known red variety, Lemberger, with the proprietary name of Blue Franc from Shady Lane, sailed past the Pinot Noirs and proprietary blends for Best Red.
“What impressed me most was the improvement in red wines,” said Dr. Richard Grant Peterson — at age 81, the dean of California winemaking and viticulture.
“The reds are more professional,” he said, comparing them to two years ago when he judged the competition.
Good showing!
