A RAMONA SWEEP IN THE FRENCH-AMERICAN WINE CHALLENGE

Wine lovers mingling at 57 Degrees in San Diego

A fun event on April 13 pitted - in a good-spirited way - three French wines from long- established wineries against three estate wines from San Diego County's up-and-coming Ramona Valley AVA. The official double-blind competition - judged by local winemakers, sommelliers, and chefs - was conducted according to American Wine Society rules. Later on nearly 200 guests tasted the same wines with the labels in full view, and voted for their favorites. Here's the lineup:

Sauvignon Blanc

2009 Simmonet Febvre from Saint Bris

2010 Milagro Farm Vineyards and Winery from Ramona Valley

Cabernet Franc

2010 Thierry Germain from Saumur Champigny

2008 Woof 'n Rose Winery from Ramona Valley

Syrah

2007 Vidal Fleury Saint Joseph

2006 Edwards Vineyards and Cellars Syrah

The medals...

And the winners are... Milagro, Woof 'n Rose, and Edwards! Woof 'n Rose's Cabernet Franc got top honors in both judgings.

Congratulations to these and other winemakers who are putting Ramona on the map!

Luci and Audrey of Milagro Farm pouring Sauvignon Blanc

Woof 'n Rose proprietors Marilyn and Steve Kahle pouring Cab Franc

Victor and Beth of  Edwards Vineyards and Cellars