The 2012 Ohio Wine Competition was held on May 7-9th to review and rate 268 wines submitted by wineries from all corners of the state.  There is no doubt that the variety and overall quality of wines from Ohio has increased substantially over the last five years. Ferrante, from the nearby Geneva cluster of wineries, won more medals than anyone. 

Here is a rundown of their award winners, including two that earned "best of show" distinction:

Best of Show White Wine:  2011 Ferrante American Riesling

Best of Show Fruit Wine:  Ferrante Raspberry Blanc (NV)

Other medal winners:

2011 Signature Series Pinot Grigio 

2010 Chardonnay Reserve

2011 Chardonnay Signature Series

2011 "Golden Bunches" Dry Riesling

2011 Riesling Signature Series

2011 Gewurtzraminer Signature Series (Gold)

2011 Gruner Vetliner

NV Merlot

2010 Cabernet Franc Signature Series

I have long been an admirer of the American Riesling and Cabernet Franc from Ferrante.  In fact, I've used both in my Valley Vino Wine Club tastings over the last year. Both wines are excellent quality and offer tremendous value at their price points.

Ferrante wines are distributed locally by Tri-County Wholesale Distributors.  The wines are available in practically every area grocery store and in many independent wine shops.

Look for more coverage of Ohio Wine Month on the front page of our Food section on May 23rd.