California Ag Network

Tag: California State Fair

  • California State Fair Announces 2026 Wine Industry Honorees

    Each year, the California State Fair Wine Competition not only showcases the state’s top wines, but also honors individuals and vineyards whose contributions have left an enduring impact on California’s wine industry.

    The California State Fair and the Wine Advisory Task Force recognizes accomplishments and services through a series of awards in the wine industry: Lifetime Achievement, Vineyard of the Year, and California All Stars. These prestigious honors reflect the spirit, history and continued evolution of California winemaking, as recognized by the very experts shaping the industry’s future.

    The Vineyard of the Year recognizes the California vineyard that consistently, over several growing seasons, produced grapes which have contributed directly to wine of superior quality and marketability within commercial sales systems and the fine wine market.

    The Wine Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes a person, family or institution whose lifetime contributions have helped pioneer and advance the California wine industry.

    The California All Stars is a posthumous award recognizing innovators, educators and leaders in the world of wine for their exemplary service and contributions to the California wine industry.

    “This year’s honorees reflect the heart and soul of California’s wine industry,” said Tom Martinez, CEO of California Exposition & State Fair. “From visionary vintners to multigenerational vineyard stewards, each has made a lasting impact on our industry, and we are honored to recognize and celebrate their remarkable contributions.”

    2026 Wine Industry Honorees

    Lifetime Achievement Awards

    Ted Bennett and Deborah Cahn — Navarro Vineyards

    Ted Bennett and Deborah Cahn accepted the award for Navarro Vineyards. Their family-owned winery in California’s Anderson Valley has been crafting estate-grown wines since 1974. Navarro is celebrated for its cool-climate varietals including Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Pinot Gris, as well as its longstanding commitment to sustainable farming and small-lot winemaking.

    Vineyard of the Year
    S.L.V. (Stag’s Leap Vineyard)

    The Vineyard of the Year honor was awarded to the historic S.L.V. (Stag’s Leap Vineyard), the original estate vineyard of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars in Napa Valley. Planted by Warren Winiarski in 1970, S.L.V. was the source of the winery’s legendary 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon, which famously won the 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting.

    In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars released 1,973 magnums of its signature S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon this May, sourced from the last remaining block of original vines planted in 1972. This spring also marks the release of the 2023 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon, a highly anticipated vintage from the historic vineyard that produced the celebrated 1973 wine.

    California Wine All-Stars

    Samuel Joseph Sebastiani — Sebastiani Vineyards

    Samuel Joseph Sebastiani’s life was an extraordinary testament to unwavering passion, deep-rooted heritage and groundbreaking innovation in winemaking. His exceptional vision and steadfast commitment elevated California’s premium wine industry, honoring the Sebastiani family’s enduring contributions to the California wine industry and multi-generational legacy in winemaking.

    Christian Michel Jean Roguenant — Lightpost Winery
    Christian Michel Jean Roguenant was a Burgundy-born winemaker who shaped California’s Central Coast wine industry for nearly four decades. As the winemaker for Lightpost Winery, he leveraged his global expertise to craft award-winning sparkling and cool-climate still wines.

    Jed Steele — Steele Wines / Shannon Ridge
    Jed Steele was a legendary California winemaker widely known as “Mr. Lake County” and the man who put California Chardonnay on the consumer map. He left a mark on the American wine industry through a career spanning over five decades.

    Dr. Anita Oberholster (2025 Honoree)
    Dr. Anita Oberholster was a globally respected wine chemist and Cooperative Extension specialist in enology at the University of California, Davis. She was widely recognized for her groundbreaking research and leadership in the wine industry. Revered as an industry “rock star,” she dedicated her career to protecting vineyards and winemaking communities around the world from climate-driven agricultural challenges.

    The 2026 honorees were celebrated during the annual Judges Dinner hosted by Grindstone Wines in Esparto, California, with support from Tierney Bates and the Yolo County Vineyard & Winery Association. Participating Yolo County wineries poured wines during the evening reception, showcasing the region’s diverse and growing wine industry.

    For more information and a complete list of winners, visit the California State Fair website.

    The California State Fair runs from July 17 through August 2 at the Cal Expo fairgrounds. Gates open at 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 10 a.m. Friday through Sunday.  — Story contributed by the California State Fair

  • California State Fair Announces Best in the State for 2026 Commercial Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition

    The California State Fair is excited to announce the top winners of the 2026 Commercial Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition, recognizing the finest Extra Virgin and Flavored Olive Oils made from 100 percent olives grown, milled, and packaged in California.

    Now in its eleventh year, the prestigious competition celebrates the excellence and diversity of California’s olive oil industry. After a rigorous blind tasting conducted by a panel of professional sensory judges led by Head Judge Julie Menge, three exceptional oils earned the competition’s highest honors, Best of Show.

    “The California State Fair Commercial Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition truly celebrates and honors our many olive oil producers across all regions of the state that continue to produce the finest of California olive oils,” said Menge.

    Best of Show Award Winners

    Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oil

    Frantoio Grove, Extra Virgin Olive Oil

    San Martin, CA

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil Blend

    Capay Valley Olive, French Blend

    Capay, CA

    Flavored Olive Oil

    McEvoy Ranch, Organic Ginger Turmeric

    Petaluma, CA

    The 2026 Best of Show Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oil is Frantoio Grove, Extra Virgin Olive Oil from San Martin, CA. This high polyphenol oil is made from estate grown Frantoio olives, picked at the first sign of ripening, and milled on site within 90 minutes of harvest for freshness, flavor, and balance. Patrick Martin, Owner, Grower and Miller of Frantoio Grove Olive Oil, and a 6th generation farmer, attributes the success of his olive orchard to regenerative farming and biologically intensive management.

    “Winning this award for our Regenerative Organic Certified olive oil validates the work we’ve done to rebuild living soil in our orchard,” said Martin. “As soil biology and tree health improve, the oils have developed more aroma, energy, and complexity.”

    The 2026 Best of Show Extra Virgin Olive Oil Blend is Capay Valley Olive, French Blend, from Capay, CA. This is Capay Valley’s first year entering the California State Fair Competition, as well as their very first harvest and first milling. Sherri Wood, owner of Capay Valley Olive and Capay Valley Lavender has curated a blend that impressed judges, who said it, “Smells like summer.”

    “This award celebrates the terroir of Capay Valley and the many hands behind this oil. My thanks to CalAthena for designing the blend, Chacewater Mill for expert milling, and the UC Davis Olive Oil Center for the research and standards that support our craft,” said Wood.

    The 2026 Best of Show Flavored Olive Oil is McEvoy Ranch, Organic Ginger Turmeric Olive Oil from Petaluma, CA. This oil is produced by co-milling fresh, organic ginger root and turmeric together with McEvoy’s estate olives. Three generations of the McEvoy family have been producing high-quality olive oils since 1990.

    “Winning Best of Show at the California State Fair for our 2025 Harvest Ginger Turmeric Olive Oil is a profound validation of our team’s unwavering dedication to creating innovative, vibrant flavor profiles in olive oil,” said Samantha Dorsey, President of McEvoy Ranch. “We invite everyone to experience this unique blend, as an ingredient in everyday cooking or as a healthy tonic, which we have crafted with the same passion and meticulous care that has defined McEvoy Ranch for over three decades.”

    This year’s competition featured 216 entries from producers across California’s major olive growing regions, reflecting the continued strength, innovation, and quality of the state’s olive oil industry. Entries were evaluated through a blind sensory tasting process and scored based on aroma, flavor, and finish, according to internationally recognized extra virgin olive oil standards.

    “Olive oil production continues to grow with increased consumer demand for local, sustainable, high-quality olive oils,” Menge continued.  “It is exciting for the judges to taste, evaluate and award medals to those entries that meet and exceed the rigorous standards with the finalists being the most exceptional, carefully crafted, outstanding extra virgin olive oils. We are very fortunate to live where we have access to locally produced, high-quality, California extra virgin olive oils.”

    The following are Best of California Award Winners of the other categories:

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil by a Micro-Producer (Two olive oils tied for this award)
    Balestrieri, Estate Blend

    Briones, CA

    Luretík Estate Olive Oil, “Meridione” Certified Organic

    Solvang, CA

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil by an Artisan Producer
    Capay Valley Olive, French Blend

    Capay, CA

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil by a Large Producer
    ENZO, Organic Medium

    Madera, CA

    Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Delicate Intensity
    Olive Truck, Arbequina-California

    Headquartered in San Francisco, CA

    Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Medium Intensity
    Frantoio Grove, Extra Virgin Olive Oil

    San Martin, CA

    Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Robust Intensity
    Marcum Olive, Itrana

    Paso Robles, CA

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil Blend, Delicate Intensity
    Luretík Estate Olive Oil, “Sicily” Certified Organic

    Solvang, CA

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil Blend, Medium Intensity
    Capay Valley Olive, French Blend

    Capay, CA

    Extra Virgin Olive Oil Blend, Robust Intensity
    Gold Ridge Organic Farms, Picholine Blend

    Sebastopol, CA

    Co-Milled Flavored Olive Oil
    McEvoy Ranch, Organic Ginger Turmeric

    Petaluma, CA

    “The California State Fair extends its congratulations to all the winners of the 2026 Commercial Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition,” said Tom Martinez, CEO of Cal Expo and the California State Fair. “Their achievements reflect the innovation, dedication, and agricultural excellence found throughout California’s olive oil industry.”

    During the 2026 California State Fair, fair guests will be able to explore award-winning extra virgin and flavored olive oils through educational exhibits, cooking demonstrations, tastings, and opportunities to purchase products directly from California producers.

    Complete results and competition information can be found at CAStateFair.com

    About the California State Fair
    The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future. The 2023 State Fair will include a comprehensive set of competitions, including California’s best commercial wines, cheeses, craft beers, cannabis, olive oils, and fine arts, among others.

  • Salinas Teen Overcomes Adversity to Win Big at CA State Fair Livestock Competition

    With tears streaming down his face, 18-year-old Luis Gonzalez was speechless when his name was called as FFA Master Showmanship winner at the 2025 CA State Fair on July 13. He also won Reserve Champion Wether Dam Doe.

    “I just couldn’t believe it! There was a lot of tough competition out there,” said Gonzalez. “But I’ve learned that hard work will take you anywhere.”

    In this moving moment during the awards ceremony, Tom Martinez, CEO of the California Exposition & State Fair, witnessed Gonzalez’s raw emotion firsthand. “This young man was shocked when his name was called,” Martinez said. “You could see the pride flowing through his tears of excitement and disbelief. He earned this moment.”

    Gonzalez’s story is one of perseverance, family sacrifice, and resilience. His journey began when he was just nine-years-old, showing animals in local 4-H programs. He started entering more competitive shows in high school. Without access to the necessary equipment to help develop winning animals like grooming supplies, feeding and watering supplies, show equipment, and general supplies, he adjusted his methods and trained harder. His turning point came when he bought a wether and was gifted a doe earlier this year. He started raising and working with her in January of 2025, dedicating countless hours before and after school.

    Gonzalez’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. In August 2023, while returning from the California Youth Ag Expo in Tulare, his family’s vehicle was t-boned and flipped five times. Luis was in a coma for a week, suffered a foot injury, and missed the first two weeks of his junior year while recovering in a medical boot. But instead of giving up, he came back stronger.

    “If you stay focused and put in the effort, you can achieve anything,” said Gonzalez.

    His success didn’t come alone. His entire family played a role in his achievements. His mother works long hours harvesting lettuce in the Salinas Valley, and his father supports the household through tree service labor. His older brother Jesus has been by his side every step of the way, attending shows, and motivating him to keep pushing forward.

    A recent graduate of Salinas High School, Gonzalez will attend Modesto Junior College this fall, continuing his agricultural journey with a focus on animal science. To other young agriculturalists, Gonzalez offers this advice, “Always be around people who make you better. Ask questions. Learn everything you can. That’s how you grow.”

    “The California State Fair is proud to celebrate young leaders like Luis,” said Martinez. “These are individuals who represent the best of California’s agricultural heritage, dedication, and heart.”

    About the California State Fair

    The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future.

  • California State Fair Honors Generations Announcing 2025 Ag Heritage Awards

    The California State Fair proudly recognizes the legacy, resilience, and contributions of multi-generational farming and ranching families as part of the 2025 Agricultural Heritage Awards. This year’s honorees include families whose operations span over a century of dedication to California’s rich agricultural landscape, with two families celebrating an extraordinary 175 years of continuous farming.

    The honorees were celebrated for their remarkable contributions and unwavering commitment to California agriculture at the Ag Heritage Awards Ceremony, Wednesday, July 16th at the Clubhouse at the Michelob Ultra Racetrack Grandstand. The Friends of the State Fair were also acknowledge their scholarship recipients.

    “These families represent the spirit and perseverance of California agriculture,” said Tom Martinez, CEO of the California Exposition & State Fair. “They’ve remained committed to working the land and feeding their communities and the world.”

    175-Year Honorees

    Locke Ranch Inc. – Lockeford, CA

    Founded in 1850 by Dr. Dean Jewett Locke, Locke Ranch is a testament to six generations of agricultural innovation and perseverance. From cattle and dairy to wine grapes and walnuts, the Locke family has continuously adapted to the times, overcoming floods, failed crops, and economic shifts. Today, the ranch spans 600 acres and remains under the stewardship of Chris and Elliot Locke, with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.

    Hoskins/Pleasants Ranch – Pleasants Valley, CA

    Settled in 1850, the Hoskins/Pleasants Ranch helped give Pleasants Valley its name. Through generations, the family raised livestock, grew orchards, and now focuses on queen bee production and regenerative agriculture. Despite the destruction of historic buildings during the 2020 LNU Lightning Complex Fire, including an original 1880 barn, the ranch was rebuilt. Under the care of Ethel Hoskins and the Joyful Ranch Foundation, this historic homestead is preserved for future generations and recognized on both the National and State Registers of Historic Places.

    125-Year Honorees

    Gowan’s Family Orchard – Philo, CA

    Established in 1876, Gowan family orchards are located in Philo, California, near the Mendocino coast, in the heart of Anderson Valley. Gowan’s Heirloom Cider is California’s pre-eminent premium cider, estate grown, produced, and bottled. Gowan’s Heirloom Cider is self-distributed in California, and available online throughout most of the US.

    Tyron Ranches – Del Norte County

    The Tryon family first settled in Del Norte County in the early 1800s. In November 1883, George Tryon purchased the original ranch property, laying the foundation for a multi-generational legacy in agriculture. Today, the ranch is proudly owned and operated by his great-niece, Rose Tryon. Rose acquired the ranch from her father, Presley Scott Tryon. Rose attributes her deepest inspiration to her grandmother, Celia W. Tryon, the matriarch of the ranch who passed on a profound respect for the land and her family’s heritage. Rose is honored to farm the same fields today where she once fed hay alongside her grandmother as a child. A lifelong advocate of agriculture, Rose Tryon has dedicated herself to advocacy and leadership. She is a former State President of California Women for Agriculture and currently serves as the National President of American Agri-Women.

    100-Year Honorees

    Heinke’s Family Farm – Paradise, CA

    Founded in 1925, Heinke’s Family Farm has evolved from fruit preserves to organic juice and specialty crops. Known for launching the U.S. kiwi industry, the farm faced devastating loss during the 2018 Camp Fire—but the orchard and vineyard survived. Today, Heinke’s stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and renewal, continuing to grow and distribute organic produce nationwide.

    San Gabriel Nursery & Florist – San Gabriel, CA

    Established in 1923 by Japanese immigrants Fred and Mitoko Yoshimura, this beloved nursery overcame immense adversity. In 1942, the Yoshimura family—American citizens—were forcibly relocated to an internment camp during World War II. After the war, they returned and rebuilt across the street, growing the nursery into a flourishing business and cultural landmark. Fred was a pioneer of the California Bonsai Society, and the family introduced unique plant varieties like the “Mission Bell” azalea.

    About the California State Fair Ag Heritage Program:

    The Agricultural Heritage Club was established in 1948 to honor California farm families who have maintained continuous family ownership and operation of their land for 100 years or more. The awards are a cherished State Fair tradition celebrating the vital role agriculture plays in California’s identity and economy.

    The California State Fair runs through July 27. Gates open at 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 10 a.m. Friday through Sunday. For tickets, schedules, and updates, visit castatefair.com.

    About the California State Fair

    The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future.

  • Wine Industry Honorees Recognized by California State Fair

    Each year, the California State Fair Wine Competition not only showcases the state’s finest wines, but also honors individuals and vineyards whose contributions have left an enduring impact on California’s wine industry. These prestigious honors reflect the spirit, history, and continued evolution of California winemaking, as recognized by the very experts shaping the industry’s future.

    “The California wine industry is built on passion, perseverance, and innovation,” said Tom Martinez, CEO of California Exposition & State Fair. “This year’s honorees embody all three qualities. From trailblazing winemakers to stewards of historic vineyards, their legacies continue to shape the future of California wine and we are proud to celebrate their contributions.”

    The awards are selected by the State Fair’s Wine Industry Task Force, a panel of veteran winemakers, respected wine writers, and seasoned wine retailers. They highlight the excellence, dedication, and legacy of individuals and families who have devoted their lives to the art and science of winemaking.

    2025 Wine Industry Honorees

    Lifetime Achievement Awards

    Andrew Quady, Quady Vineyards (Madera, CA)

    Celebrating 50 years of innovation and artistry, Andrew “Andy” Quady has become internationally renowned for his sweet and aperitif wines. From Electra Moscato to Essensia Orange Muscat and Elysium Black Muscat, Quady’s pioneering efforts have elevated California’s Central Valley as a region capable of producing world-class specialty wines.

    Trinchero Family Estates (Napa Valley, CA)

    What began as a humble pursuit by Italian immigrant Mario Trinchero has evolved into a global force in winemaking. From producing the world’s first White Zinfandel to building a portfolio of over 50 wine and spirits brands, Trinchero Family Estates remains a hallmark of innovation, family legacy, and the enduring American Dream.

    Vineyard of the Year

    Marian’s Vineyard, Lodi (Owned by Mohr-Fry Ranches)

    Planted in 1901, Marian’s Vineyard is a living tribute to old-vine Zinfandel. Praised by longtime Sacramento wine writer Mike Dunne, the vineyard is recognized “for its quality, individuality, and perseverance.” Dunne adds, “It stands as a reminder of what could be lost if old vines are not preserved.” Mohr-Fry Ranches has been the steward of this historic vineyard since the 1950s.

    The 2025 honorees were celebrated at the annual Judges Dinner, hosted by the Clarksburg Winery Collective, on Wednesday, April 16 at the historic Old Sugar Mill in Clarksburg.

    For more information about the California State Fair Wine Competition, visit www.CalExpoStateFair.com.

    The California State Fair runs from July 11 to July 27 at the Cal Expo fairgrounds. Gates open at 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 10 a.m. Friday through Sunday.

    About the California State Fair

    The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future.

  • California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition Winners Announced

    The California State Fair is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 California Commercial Wine Competition. As one of the nation’s most respected wine competitions, Chief Judge Mark Chandler led 39 expert judges to taste and evaluate 1,587 wines representing 309 of California’s top wine brands.

    Dating back to 1854, the California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition is the oldest and most prestigious wine competition in the United States, continuing a legacy of honoring the very best of the Golden State.

    The competition is open exclusively to wines made with fruit grown and produced in California’s 11 wine growing regions. Wines are judged by class, varietal, style, and growing region, celebrating the depth and diversity of California’s winemaking industry. The judging was held over three days at Cal Expo.

    Top honors this year include:

    Best of Show Red – 2023 Barbera by St. Amant Winery

    Best of Show White – 2024 Verdelho by Las Positas Vineyards (Livermore Valley)

    The most prestigious title, Golden State Winery of the Year, was awarded to Europa Village Winery & Resort in Temecula, marking their first time receiving the honor.

    “The Commercial Wine Competition is a true celebration of California’s rich agricultural heritage and the incredible talent of our state’s winemakers,” said Tom Martinez, CEO of the California Exposition & State Fair. “We’re proud to showcase these award-winning wines at the Fair and give our guests a chance to experience the best of the Golden State.”

    The 2025 Top California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition winners are:

    Golden State Winery of the Year:

    Europa Village Winery & Resort

    Best of Show Red:
    St. Amant Winery
    2023 Barbera
    Lodi

    Best of Show White:
    Las Positas Vineyards
    2024 Verdelho
    Livermore Valley

    Best of Show Sparkling:
    Flying Goat Cellars
    2021 Pinot Meunier Sparkling Wine 
    Santa Maria Valley

    Best of Show Dessert:

    Quady Winery

    2022 Orange Muscat Dessert Wine

    Madera

    Best Value:
    Plata Wine Partners
    2024 ‘Pink Moon’ Varietal Rose Blend
    California

    Best Micro Winery Red:
    Docmanov Vineyards & Winery
    2024 Counoise
    Santa Maria Valley

    Best Micro Winery White:
    Tiny Vineyards Wine Company
    2024 Vermentino
    Sierra Foothills

    Best Micro Winery Other:

    Great Bear Vineyards

    2024 Rose of Cabernet Sauvignon

    Sierra Foothills

    About the California State Fair

    The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future.

     

     

  • California State Fair 2025 Commercial Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition Winners

    The California State Fair proudly announces the winners of the 10th annual Commercial Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. This prestigious event celebrates the excellence and diversity of California’s olive oil industry. The competition is exclusively open to Extra Virgin and Flavored Olive Oils made from olives which are 100% grown, milled, and packaged in California. This year’s competition saw an unprecedented 10 double-gold winners, a significant increase from the previous high of just two.

    Head Judge Paul Vossen, alongside a panel of 15 expert sensory evaluation judges, meticulously assessed each entry based on aroma, flavor, and overall quality. Vossen is a former University of California Cooperative Extension Farm Advisor with over 30 years of experience. He has developed statewide and international expertise in olive oil production, processing, and sensory evaluation, including management of the first olive oil taste panel in the USA to become recognized by the International Olive Oil Council in 2001. Vossen is a regular speaker at conferences around the world on these topics and an instructor in olive oil sensory evaluation. As a founding member of the California Olive Oil Council in 1990, he continues to be a key figure in the industry.

    “This year’s group of 188 submitted oils show an astounding level of excellence with an overwhelming number of high level awards given by experienced and trustworthy judges,” said Paul Vossen, Head Judge.

    2025 Best of Show Winners:
    Best Monovarietal: Olivaia’s OLA, Estate Sevillano
    Best Blend: Jubaea Estate, Tuscan Blend
    Best Flavored: Sunshine Olive Oil, Hot Chili

    The Best of Show Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oil is Olivaia’s OLA Estate Sevillano, crafted in Lindsay, CA. This rare and delicate oil is made from Sevillano olives, often called “Queens” due to their large size. Husband and wife producer team Giulio Zavolta and Dr. Rachelle Bross carefully select the best of the crop to produce extra virgin olive oil that is rare, delicate, and as unique as the fruit itself.

    “This Best of Show is an incredible honor and accomplishment for us as it is a testament to the love and respect we have for our trees, their California history, and the soil that sustains them,” said Giulio Zavolta. “It’s our ‘history in a bottle’.”

    The Best of Show Extra Virgin Olive Oil Blend is Jubaea Estate’s Tuscan Blend, produced in Napa, CA. The carefully crafted oil comes from 600 imported Italian olive trees, including Frantoio, Leccino, Pendolino, and Moraiolo varieties. Certified Organic through California Certified Organic Farmers, this blend features aromatic notes of fresh grass and green apple.

    The Best of Show Flavored Olive Oil is Sunshine Olive Oil’s Hot Chili, a co-milled oil made in Templeton, CA. By crushing fresh olives with seasonal chili peppers, Catherine “Sunshine” Miller has created a bold and aromatic oil with a perfectly balanced spicy finish. Judges praised it as “Outstanding!” and “Perfect.”

    Best of California Winners:
    Extra Virgin Olive Oil by a Micro-Producer: Jubaea Estate, Tuscan Blend
    Extra Virgin Olive Oil by an Artisan Producer: Gold Ridge Organic Farms, Picholine Blend
    Extra Virgin Olive Oil by a Large Producer: Cal Pressed, Arbequina
    Delicate Intensity Monovarietal EVOO: Olivaia’s OLA, Estate Sevillano
    Medium Intensity Monovarietal EVOO: Sunshine Olive Oil, Spanish Oaks Picual Organic
    Robust Intensity Monovarietal EVOO: Marcum Olive, Itrana
    Medium Intensity EVOO Blend: Jubaea Estate, Tuscan Blend
    Robust Intensity EVOO Blend: Olivaia’s OLA, Block X Heirloom
    Co-Milled Flavored Olive Oil: Sunshine Olive Oil, Hot Chili

    Friend to the Consumer Awards:
    Séka Hills
    California Olive Ranch

    The Friend to the Consumer Award honors olive oil producers committed to transparency and consumer education through exemplary labeling. The labels are evaluated for information on provenance, freshness assurance, tasting notes, and suggested uses. Dr. Selina Wang, California State Fair olive oil labeling judge and co-author of the labeling standards for olive oil entered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture remarked, “This year’s winners set a high standard for consumer education and transparency.”

    Fair attendees can explore an exhibit featuring award-winning extra virgin and flavored olive oils during the 2025 California State Fair, including complimentary tastings, educational classes, and opportunities to purchase olive oil directly from award-winning producers. For complete results and more information, visit www.CalExpoStateFair.com.

    The 2025 California State Fair runs from July 11 to July 27 at the Cal Expo fairgrounds. Gates open at 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 10 a.m. Friday through Sunday.
    About the California State Fair
    The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future.

  • CA State Fair 2023 Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition Winners

    The California State Fair is pleased to announce the 2023 winners of the eighth annual California Commercial Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. A panel of 12 experienced sensory analyst judges gathered at the Cal Expo Fairgrounds in Sacramento on March 8 to swirl, sniff, sip, and analyze samples of olive oil from producers all over California. The annual competition celebrates the olive-growing and olive oil producing industries in California, and is open only to Extra Virgin and Flavored Olive Oils made from 100% olives which are grown, milled and packaged in California.

    This year 540 shining new bottles of extra virgin and flavored olive oils lined the cellar shelves at Cal Expo. Each of the 134 entries arrived with hope from their Producers that their care, expertise and hard work would result in a coveted Best of Show Golden Bear Trophy.

    California State Fair Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition Head Judge Nancy Ash, an advocate for California’s olive oil industry since 1996, is the President of Strictly Olive Oil LLC. Ash enlisted the talents of an exceptional group of skilled and experienced judges, some with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Ash commented on the judging event, “The California State Fair Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition is one of my favorite events of the year! It is an honor to work with this group of exceptional tasters. It is educational for us to taste the varied flavors produced from the many different varieties of olives grown in our great state. I appreciate that this competition supports California Agriculture, and the hardworking farmers and producers that contribute to our state’s olive oil industry.”

    Head Judge Nancy Ash

    The 2023 Best of Show Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a Coratina Olive Oil, by Olive Truck of San Francisco, CA. Olive Truck’s Coratina also won one of only 2 Double Gold Medals awarded this year. This is the second Best of Show award in a row for Sam Bayraktar, owner of Olive Truck. In 2022, he won the award for his Tuscan Blend. According to Bayraktar, “California has a number of olive oil producers that are working hard to put California on the world olive oil map by producing exceptional olive oils. I’m deeply happy to be a part of this effort. I am honored and grateful to have been named Best of Show at the California State Fair for the second year in a row.”

    The 2023 Best of Show Flavored Olive Oil is a Basil, co-milled, flavored oil by Sciabica’s California Olive Oil, of Modesto, CA. “My Family is honored to be awarded Best of Show! For me, the California State Fair Competition is the major league for California Olive Oil Producers,” said Jon Sciabica, owner of Sciabica’s California Olive Oil. “Winning here truly validates the hard work of our entire team!”

    This competition honors Olive Oil producers at all production levels. The Best California Extra Virgin Olive Oil by a Micro-producer Award (Less than 500 gallons annually) was awarded to a Picual by Rio Bravo Ranch of Bakersfield, CA. The Best of California Extra Virgin Olive Oil by an Artisan Producer Award (between 500 and 5,000 gallons annually) was awarded to a Coratina by Olive Truck of San Francisco, CA. The Best of California Extra Virgin Olive Oil by a Large Producer Award (more than 5,000 gallons annually), went to a Taggiasca by Séka Hills of Brooks, CA.

    During the 2023 California State Fair, July 14 – 30, fair guests will enjoy an exhibit featuring award-winning flavored and extra virgin olive oils, with free tastings, and the opportunity to purchase olive oil directly from award-winning California producers.

    A complete listing of award-winning California Olive Oils and competition information can be found on the California State Fair website at CalExpoStateFair.com/California-Commercial-Extra-Virgin-Olive-Oil

    Olive oil being poured

     

    About the California State Fair

    The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future. The 2023 State Fair will include a comprehensive set of competitions, including California’s best commercial wines, cheeses, craft beers, cannabis, olive oils, and fine arts, among others.

  • California State Fair Announces Commercial Wine Winners

    The California State Fair is pleased to announce the winners of the 2022 California Commercial Wine Competition. The highly anticipated event returned last week for three days at Cal Expo.

    This year, a panel of 44 official judges led by Chief Judge Mark Chandler tasted and evaluated 1,953 California wines from 443 California wineries. The competition, which had been on a 2 year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic, celebrates the wine growing and wine producing industry in California. It is open only to wines made with fruit grown and produced in the eleven growing regions across the State of California. Wines are evaluated by class, varietal, style, and region based upon the source of the grapes.

    A 2019 Sangiovese from Las Positas Vineyards in Livermore Valley collected Best of Show Red honors. The Best of Show White title was given to Ogilvie Merwin Ventures’ Fellow’s Brand 2021 Chenin Blanc from Clarksburg.

    Top wines, including the Best of Region and Best of California winners, will be featured at the California State Fair in the Save Mart Wine Garden for visitors to enjoy July 15 through July 31, 2022.

    There were a total of 21 Best of Regions Awards, 18 Best of California Awards, the Best Value Award, 3 Best of Micro Winery Awards, and the coveted Golden State Winery of the Year Award. A huge congratulations to South Coast Winery to winning the Golden State Winery of the Year Award! South Coast has won the Golden State Winery of the Year Award in 2008, 2009, 2013, and 2016, making 2022 their fifth win. Total medals awarded were 99 Double Gold, 257 Gold, 878 Silver, and 583 Bronze.

    Dating back to 1854, the California State Fair Wine Competition is America’s oldest and most prestigious wine event. For more than 160 years, the California State Fair has showcased the Best of the Golden State.

    Complete results and competition information can be found on the California State Fair website at CalExpoStateFair.com/California-Commercial-Wine

    About the California State Fair

    The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future. The 2022 State Fair will include a comprehensive list of competitions, including California’s best commercial wines, cheeses, craft beers, cannabis, olive oils, and fine arts, among others.

  • CA State Fair Announces 2022 Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition Winners

    The California State Fair is pleased to announce the winners of the 2022 California Commercial Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition. A panel of 12 certified sensory analyst judges gathered at the Cal Expo Fairgrounds, in Sacramento on May 18, to swirl, sniff, sip and analyze samples of olive oil from producers all over California. The annual competition celebrates the olive-growing and olive oil producing industries in California, and is open only to Extra Virgin and Flavored Olive Oils made from 100% olives which are grown, pressed and packaged in California.

    This year 468 shining, new bottles of olive oil lined the cellar shelves of Cal Expo. Each of the 117 entries arrived with the hope of their producers that their care, expertise and hard work would result in a coveted Best of Show Golden Bear Trophy.

    Competition Head Judge Orietta Gianjorio enlisted the talents of an exceptional group of skilled and experienced judges, some with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Gianjorio commented on the judging event, “It is always an honor to participate in the California State Fair Olive Oil Competition. All judges are incredibly talented and gifted tasters, deeply committed to the industry and high quality. The excitement in the room is palpable. After a couple of years of absence, we are all very happy to finally taste together and share our passion for California Extra Virgin Olive Oil. We are all thrilled to share our comments and taste amazing oils produced from this wonderful state of California.”

    The 2022 Best of Show Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the Tuscan Blend by Olive Truck of San Francisco, California. Sam Bayraktar’s personal initiative, Olive Truck, started operation in 2019 which he describes as “the most exciting food project of all time.” This mobile mill combines Sam’s own experience with a state of the art vacuum-milling technology. The Olive Truck can take production straight to the groves which allows manufacturing of high-quality, extra-fresh olive oil right from the source.

    The Best of Show Flavored Olive Oil is Kaffir Lime by IL Fiorello Olive Oil Company of Fairfield, California. IL Fiorello is a family-owned company dedicated to growing and milling the finest quality artisan olive oil. Owners Ann and Mark Sievers produce oil from their own certified organic groves.

    This competition honors Olive Oil producers at all production levels. The Best California Extra Virgin Olive Oil by a Micro-producer (Less than 500 gallons annually) was awarded to “Elegante” Certified Organic Arbequina by Fandango Olive Oil of Paso Robles, California. The Best of California Extra Virgin Olive Oil by an Artisan Producer (between 500 and 5,000 gallons annually) was awarded to Kaffir Lime by IL Fiorello Olive Oil Company of Fairfield, California. The Best California Extra Virgin Olive Oil by a Large Producer (more than 5,000 gallons annually) went to Arbequina by Wild Groves of Newcastle, California.

    During the 2022 California State Fair, July 15 – July 31, fair guests will enjoy an exhibit featuring award-winning extra virgin olive oils, free tastings, and the opportunity to purchase olive oil directly from award-winning California olive oil producers.

    Complete results and competition information can be found on the California State Fair website at CalExpoStateFair.com/California-Commercial-Extra-Virgin-Olive-Oil

    About the California State Fair

    The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future. The 2022 State Fair will include a comprehensive list of competitions, including California’s best commercial wines, cheeses, olive oils, and fine arts, among others.