Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Press Democrat North Coast Wine Challenge?

Every year The Press Democrat offers wine lovers the opportunity to taste the best wines from the North Coast American Viticulture Areas (AVA). These are wines that achieve both a Gold Medal status and 90+ points in The Press Democrat North Coast Wine Competition.  The North Coast AVA consists of wines made from grapes grown in Napa, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Solano and Sonoma counties. The winning wines are selected by prestigious judges in a blind taste test. The judging occurs in April and is not open to the public.

When will the winning wines be announced?

The gold medal winners of the Press Democrat North Coast Wine Challenge will be announced in late April on pressdemocrat.com and in The Press Democrat’s Food+Wine section.

What is the appropriate attire?

Wine country casual. We recommend comfortable shoes as the event is outside on grass and hard surfaces.  And don’t forget the sunscreen.

Are babies in strollers allowed?

Attendees must be 21 or older, so please be prepared to present a valid ID at the event. Children, babies, and babies in strollers will not be admitted.

Will this event support a nonprofit organization?

More information coming soon.

Event Cancellations

Cancellations will not be accepted

How can I volunteer?

Email our events team at socoevents@pressdemocrat.com for more information.

Parking

Convenient on-site parking will be available for the event.

Weather

Temperatures in June are likely to be in the mid 70s.  We suggest bringing hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.