GEYSERVILLE, Calif. (January 9, 2019) – Alexander Valley Winegrowers is pleased to announce that the 20th Annual Regional Pruning Contest will take place on January 29, 2019 at Vimark Vineyards in Geyserville. Registration is now open and all members of the Alexander Valley Winegrowers are encouraged to enter their pruners into the contest. The contest will be followed by a casual lunch in the vineyards in Alexander Valley.
Originally created as a competition between the different appellations in Sonoma County in 1999, Alexander Valley Winegrowers has continued the tradition for 20 years, and is the only appellation with its own regional pruning contest.
“We want to highlight the professional skills and hard work of the people working out in the vineyards. They are the reason that we can produce amazing fruit. They are a valuable part of this industry.” explains Mark Houser, Vineyard Manager at Alexander Valley Vineyards and past President of the Alexander Valley Winegrowers.
Mark joined the board of the Alexander Valley Winegrowers in 1999 and became involved in the pruning contest shortly after it was created. He has since single-handedly kept the contest alive.
The pruning contest had a record-breaking 26 contestants in 2018, up over 7 contestants the prior year. “We are hoping that 2019 will be the biggest turnout yet,” Houser says.
The growing number of contestants contributes to the momentum of the event, but it is really the donors and sponsors who have allowed this tradition to thrive. Each year Alexander Valley wineries, winegrowers, and community partners donate logoed gear and cash prizes for the participants. All participants walk away with swag, but only the top 5 get a cash prize. Last year the first place contestant, Ponciano Ramirez from Vimark, was awarded $650.00.
For more details please visit https://alexandervalley.org/upcoming-events/
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About Alexander Valley Winegrowers
The Alexander Valley Winegrowers are committed to the preservation and promotion of the vineyards and wineries in the Alexander Valley appellation. Founded in 1984, Alexander Valley Winegrowers represents 31 wineries, 75 winegrowers, and 18 community partners. To learn more about the Alexander Valley Winegrowers, visit: AlexanderValley.org
