FRANKFORT, Ky. — Two Kentucky wineries earned gold medals and a total of 11 were honored at the Indy International Wine Competition Aug. 3-5 in West Lafayette, Ind.

“Kentucky is being recognized as a major producer of quality wines,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. “Congratulations to all the Kentucky wineries that competed at this prestigious event. These wineries and others are raising the bar for fine Kentucky wine.”

Jean Farris Winery & Bistro of Lexington struck gold with its Petite Syrah, and Wight-Meyer Vineyard & Winery of Shepherdsville earned a gold medal with its Petite Syrah. Wight-Meyer’s Diamond was Best of Class in American Late Harvest and Ice Wine, and the winery won nine medals in all. Jean Farris captured a total of five medals.

Other Kentucky wineries that scored at Indy International were Acres of Land Winery, Richmond (two medals); Black Barn Winery, Lexington (one); Elk Creek Vineyards, Owenton (two); Grimes Mill Winery, Lexington (one); Purple Toad Winery, Paducah (seven); Reid’s Livery Winery, Alvaton (one); River Valley Winery, Carrollton (two); Talon Winery, Lexington (one); and Wildside Winery & Vineyard, Versailles (one).

Several Kentucky winemakers earned high honors in the amateur categories. A complete list of medalists is available at www.indyinternational.org.

Indy International bills itself as the largest scientifically organized and independent wine competition in the United States. Some 3,000 wines from throughout the U.S. and 15 countries were judged.

In July, Kentucky wineries brought home 13 medals, including three golds, at the Mid-American Wine Competition in Ankeny, Iowa. Harkness Edwards Vineyards of Winchester earned two gold medals for its Vat 32 Viognier as well as a bronze. Reid’s Livery Winery captured gold with its Black Raspberry wine and also won a bronze. Purple Toad Winery won five medals, including a best of class for their PeachBerry, and Acres of Land won three. A full list of medalists is available at www.midamericanwine.org/

Once a leading grape- and wine-producing state, Kentucky today boasts nearly 70 wineries that are earning awards in competitions throughout the nation.

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