Wineries win in S.F. competition

FOOTHILLS WINERIES FARED WELL in this year’s San Francisco Chronicle wine competition.

The Nevada County wineries, also known as Sierra Vintners, that won medals included Avanguardia Wines, Lucchesi Vineyards, Montoliva Vineyard, Naggiar Vineyards and Pilot Peak Winery.

Montoliva won “best of class” for its 2008 Sierra Bella. “Now try to tell me this isn’t the best $15 bottle of wine on the planet,” said Winemaker/Owner Mark Henry, known for his effervescence.

Pilot Peak won three golds (Petite Sirah, Syrah and Tempranillo, all from 2009).

Naggiar won two golds (for its 2009 Mistero and its 2008 Il Nonno), as well as two other medals (silvers for Malbec and Syrah).

Avanguardia won three medals (a silver for 2007 Cristallo, and a bronzes for Premiato and Sanginet).

In Placer County, Casque Wines, Ciotti Cellars, Fawnridge Winery, Lone Buffalo Vineyard, Mt. Vernon Winery, Pescatore, Popie Wines and Wise Villa all won medals.

Casque won a gold for its Malbec and a silver for its Calotte. Popie won a silver for a dry rose. Ciotti won two medals: for its old-vine zinfandel and Barbara.

A full list of the winners is here.

(photo credit: Montoliva in late October by renowned oil painter, Carolyn Bloom)