For the past 17 years, I’ve had the honor of serving as Chairwoman of the Hudson Valley Wine, Spirits & Cider Competition, held each September at the Hudson Valley Wine Festival in Rhinebeck, New York. When I look back over nearly two decades, I am truly amazed at how far our region has come.
When I first began, the quality of Hudson Valley wines was still finding its voice. Over the years, I’ve seen incredible growth, innovation, and consistency. Today, the wines, spirits, and ciders produced in our region rival those from much more established wine areas, and this competition is a wonderful way to showcase what the Hudson Valley has to offer.
The judges—who include writers, educators, sommeliers, and international wine experts—always remark on the improvements year after year. And I couldn’t agree more. Watching these wineries evolve has been a lot like watching my kids grow up—seeing them blossom, mature, and step confidently into the spotlight.
This year’s 2025 Hudson Valley Wine, Spirits & Cider Competition was a shining example of that growth. Here are the top winners:
Winery of the Year – Fjord Vineyards
Best in Show – Robibero Winery 2021 The Stray
Best Overall Hudson Valley Wine (made with Hudson Valley fruit) – Fjord Vineyards 2024 Albariño
Best Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc – Robibero Winery 2021 The Stray
Best Sparkling – Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery Vidal Pétillant Naturel (Pet-Nat)
Best White Wine – Fjord Vineyards 2024 Albariño
Best Red Wine – Robibero Winery 2021 The Stray
Best Rosé – Benmarl Winery 2024 Dry Rosé
Best Dessert Wine – City Winery Hudson Valley 2023 Vin de Glacier
I couldn’t be prouder of the producers who entered this year. Their dedication and passion are what make the Hudson Valley such a special place to live and taste.
If you haven’t visited a Hudson Valley winery recently, I encourage you to take a trip, do a tasting, and see for yourself. You’ll be surprised—and delighted—by the quality, creativity, and character in every glass.
Here’s to another year of celebrating the wines, spirits, and ciders of the Hudson Valley.
All the winning wines and medals by winery can be found by visiting https://hvwga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025-Hudson-Valley-Wine-Spirits-Cider-Competition-Results.pdf
