The results are in and the fifth annual Sommelier Challenge had a decidedly international flair. Six countries are represented in the Best of Show awards. The competition was staged over the final weekend of September in San Diego, with 16 exceptional sommeliers from around the nation evaluating 898 wines.
Wine of the Year
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Best of Show Sparkling Wine
Moet & Chandon 1993 Grand Vintage Collection Brut, $140
Epernay, France
Best of Show Red Wine
Castello di Gabbiano 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, $22
Tuscany, Italy
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Black Stallion 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, $27.99
Napa Valley, California
Best of Show White Wine
Dr. Konstantin Frank 2012 Riesling Reserve, $25
Finger Lakes, New York
Best of Show Rose Wine
Falkner Winery 2012 Rosato, Estate, $15.95
Temecula Valley, California
Best of Show Dessert Wine
Barboursville Vineyard 2008 Malvaxia Reserve Passito, $31.99
Virgina
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Inniskillin 2008 Riesling Icewine, VQA, $80
Niagara Peninsula, Canada
Best of Show Fortified Wine
Taylor Fladgate 20-Year-Old Aged Tawny, $54.99
Douro Valley, Portugal
Best of Show Spirit
Pilavas Tentura Liqueur, $24
Greece
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