“Mendocino County was officially honored as the American Wine Region of the Year at Wine Enthusiast
magazine’s Wine Star Awards ceremony on January 27 in San Francisco. The award was accepted at a
ceremony in San Francisco on January 27 by Bonnie Butcher, Executive Director of Mendocino
Winegrowers Inc. (MWI) along with MWI President Elizabeth Archer, MWI Treasurer Lorenzo Pacini, MWI
Board Member Rich Sowalsky, and other representatives from the Mendocino County wine industry.
This prestigious honor celebrates Mendocino County’s long-standing tradition of winemaking excellence,
its commitment to sustainable practices, and the vibrant community that defines the region. As one of
California’s most eco-conscious wine regions, Mendocino has earned its reputation as the state’s
“greenest AVA,” with 25% of its planted vineyards certified organic – a remarkable distinction that
accounts for one-third of all organic vineyards in California.
“This recognition isn’t just about our wines; it’s about the people who pour their hearts into our land and
community,” said Butcher in her acceptance speech.
The Mendocino County American Viticultural Area (AVA), covering more than 275,000 acres, includes 12
distinct sub-regions that offer a diverse range of growing conditions and microclimates. The county has
become a sought-after destination for wine lovers and tourists alike, offering a wide range of experiences
from intimate tastings in barns with dirt floors to festivals celebrating everything from wine to mushrooms, seafood, and whales.
The Wine Star award will be proudly displayed at the California Welcome Center in Ukiah, where visitors
can not only admire the region’s achievement but also take home a taste of Mendocino by purchasing
local wines.
About Mendocino Winegrowers Incorporated (MWI)
Mendocino Winegrowers Incorporated (MWI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and
supporting the vintners and grape growers of Mendocino County. Focused on sustainability, education,
and marketing, MWI plays a pivotal role in increasing the visibility and recognition of Mendocino’s wines,
both nationally and internationally.
Media Contact
Mendocino Winegrowers, Inc.
Bonnie Butcher, Executive Director
info@mendowine.com
Website: mendowine.com
Photo credit: Gamma Nine Photography
Photo caption: Mendocino County is honored as the American Wine Region of the Year at the Wine
Enthusiast Wine Star Awards on January 27. From left, Mendocino County representatives Jeff Jindra,
Sebastian Donoso, Lorenzo Pacini, Elizabeth Archer, Arnaud Weyrich, Bonnie Butcher, Richard
Sowalsky; and Wine Enthusiast writer Tonya Pitts.
