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Gray Ghost Takes Double Gold in San Francisco!
Posted: September 7, 2008
Gray Ghost's 2007 Adieu took Double Gold at the San Francisco International Wine competition held earlier this summer! Gray Ghost's Adieu was one of only 127 wines to receive this honor out of 4,260 wines entered. Double Gold medals are reserved for those wines that receive a unanimous vote for a Gold Medal by all judges in a panel. As a double Gold medal winner, Gray Ghost will be presented at The Tasting Panel Magazine wine, spirits and culinary events held throughout the country. Gray Ghost's Adieu will be featured at an event at The Charlie Palmer Steakhouse in Washington, D.C. on October 16, in addition to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago and New York throughout the year.
The San Francisco International Wine Competition is the largest, most influential international wine competition in America, judged by a prestigious panel of national recognized wine experts. "We actually received a personal phone call to inform us of this award. They were so thrilled to report the news and tell us that the Gray Ghost Adieu would be presented to high-end consumers, trade and media throughout the country," said Amy Payette, Director of Marketing.
Gray Ghost was also awarded six medals, including a gold on the Cabernet Sauvignon, in this year's Tasters Guild Consumers' Wine Judging held in Washington, D.C. in August. Gray Ghost's Adieu, Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Ranger Reserve and Reserve Chardonnay all took silver medals and the Gewurztraminer was awarded bronze. The Tasters Guild Consumers' Wine Judging is a unique competition since all wines are judged solely by consumers. This is the sixth year Gray Ghost has won gold in the Consumers' Competition.
Gray Ghost Awarded Top Honors in Texas!
Posted: July 8, 2008
Gray Ghost took top honors with a "Grand Star Award" and swept the Lone Star International Wine Competition held in June in Dallas, Texas. Gray Ghost's 2007 Adieu won the "Grand Star Award" which is the Texas equivalent of "Best of Show"! This is the third time Gray Ghost has won the top award, previous award winners include Gray Ghost's Gewurztraminer and Vidal Blanc. In addition to the "Grand Star Award", Gray Ghost's Cabernet Sauvignon took home silver and the Ranger Reserve, Gewurztraminer, and Vidal Blanc were awarded bronze.
The Lone Star announcement came on the heels of Gray Ghost's six medal wins at the Amenti del Vino International wine competition in May where the Reserve Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon both won Gold, the Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and Adieu took Silver and the Ranger Reserve and Vidal Blanc took bronze.
Gray Ghost Awarded "Best of Class" in California!
Posted: June 20, 2008
For the third consecutive year Gray Ghost has been awarded "Best of Class" honors in the Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition! Gray Ghost's 2007 Vidal Blanc took top honors while the 2007 Adieu was awarded Gold. Dubbed the Granddaddy of wine competitions and one of the country's five largest competitions, this year's 69th Annual Competition received over 4,000 wines from around the world. Gray Ghost was the only Virginia winery to receive top honors in this competition!
In addition to the California awards, Gray Ghost's 2007 Gewurztraminer took Gold at the Virginia State Fair wine competition. With these recent announcements, Gray Ghost has won 13 top awards and gold medals in 2008 alone. "We have been emphasizing the outstanding growing season in 2007 and now the judges are rewarding these top quality wines from a perfect vintage year!" said Amy K. Payette, Director of Marketing at Gray Ghost.
Gray Ghost Sweeps International Wine Competition
Posted: May 21, 2008
Gray Ghost swept the 21st Annual Tasters Guild International Wine Judging held in Grand Rapids, Michigan, winning medals on all eleven wines entered, making them the most awarded Virginia wintery in the competition! Gray Ghost earned eight silver medals for the Adieu, Gewurztraminer, Vidal Blanc, Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Ranger Reserve and Cabernet Franc. The Riesling, Reserve Chardonnay and Seyval Blanc were awarded bronze medals. This is the sixth time Gray Ghost has swept this competition!
Gray Ghost takes Two Golds in California
Posted: May 15, 2008
Gray Ghost's 2007 Adieu and 2007 Vidal Blanc won gold medals at the 23rd Annual Pacific Rim International Wine Competition held in San Bernardino, California in April! Gray Ghost was the only Virginia winery to win gold! In addition, Gray Ghost's 2006 Reserve Chardonnay was awarded silver. One of California's largest, most renowned wine judgings, this year's event received over 2000 entries from North and South America, Australia and New Zealand.
The Pacific Rim announcement comes on the heels of three medal wins at California's prestigious Riverside International Wine Competition. Gray Ghost's Adieu, Vidal Blanc and Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon all took home bronze. The Adieu was also awarded bronze at San Diego's International Wine Competition. With this announcement, Gray Ghost's Adieu has already been awarded 10 medals, seven in California wine competitions!
Gray Ghost Takes Double Gold in California Wine Competition
Posted: April 14, 2008
On the heels of a Gold medal win at California's Grand Harvest Awards, the 2007 Adieu just took a Double Gold at the Lodi International, also held in California. This represents the ninth award Gray Ghost has won in International Wine Competitions hosted in California within the past week! In addition to the Double Gold, Gray Ghost's Adieu took Silver at the Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition and a Bronze at the National Women's Wine Competition. Gray Ghost's Cabernet Franc, Gewurztraminer and new Bordeaux blend Ranger Reserve were also medal winners in California.
Gray Ghost's nationally recognized Reserve Chardonnay medaled in all three California wine competitions this past week. In a category where every winery produces Chardonnay, Gray Ghost is thrilled to have taken a medal on the Reserve Chardonnay in every competition it has been entered.
"Gray Ghost's Reserve Chardonnay is fermented and aged in all new French oak barrels and undergoes full malo-lactic fermentation. For the Reserve Chardonnay to be recognized for its outstanding character, continues to thrill us. At the same time, to find a wine produced in this style from any other region in the world would cost a consumer twice as much. The Reserve Chardonnay gains recognition for both quality and value which is what we strive for at Gray Ghost," commented Al Kellert, owner and winemaker with his wife, Cheryl.
The Lodi International Wine Awards is a consumer-focused wine judging. A unique collaboration between wine experts and sensory scientist, it employs a new and revolutionary method of wine assessment that includes a wine consumer interface. The Lodi International Wine Awards celebrates the remarkable diversity of wines and wine styles on the market today.
In its 18th year, the Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition continues to be one of California's most premier competitions. The National Women's Wine Competition is a unique competition judged solely by women in the wine industry.
Gray Ghost Strikes Gold in California Wine Competition
Posted: March 31, 2008
Gray Ghost's 2007 Adieu won Gold at its first competition of the year, the 18th annual Grand Harvest Awards in Santa Rosa, California! The Grand Harvest Awards attracted over 1700 entries from North America, Europe, South America and the Pacific Rim. All judges must unanimously agree before an award is bestowed. Gray Ghost's Adieu has taken Gold in the competition every year it has been entered! According to the competition's press material, "The goal of the Grand Harvest Awards has been, and continues to be, to identify the finest examples from each viticultural region."
Join Gray Ghost for the release of the 2007 Adieu on April 5, 2008. Enjoy complimentary samplings of the limited production, Gold-medal winning Adieu throughout the month of April!
Gray Ghost to Present in Sacramento, California
Posted: March 26, 2008
Al and Cheryl Kellert, owners and winemakers of Gray Ghost Vineyards and Winery in Amissville, Virginia will represent the Commonwealth of Virginia as speakers at the 41st National Conference of the American Wine Society in Sacramento, California in November of 2008. After a tremendously successful presentation in Winston-Salem, North Carolina this past November, event organizers asked the Kellerts to take their Virginia message to California this year. This Annual conference features prominent American and international speakers conducting seminars and lectures on all aspects of wine appreciation, wine production, grape growing and cuisine.
The American Wine Society is a national, non-profit, consumer-oriented organization devoted to educating people on all aspects of wine. Its members include wine experts, novices, grape growers, amateur and professional winemakers, chefs, wine educators and restaurateurs. There are currently over 5,000 members from the United States, Canada and 11 other countries in more than 110 AWS chapters.
Gray Ghost Sweeps California Wine Competition!
Posted: February 19, 2008
Gray Ghost Winery swept the San Francisco Chronicle wine competition for the third consecutive year, beginning the 2008 competition season as successful as 2007! In a competition dominated by California wine entries, Gray Ghost won on both wines entered! The 2006 Reserve Chardonnay received a Bronze and Gray Ghost's internationally renowned dessert wine Adieu took home a Bronze in the late harvest dessert wine category. This is the 28th medal the 2006 Adieu has won; twelve of those medals were awarded in California wine competitions.
Founded in 1983, the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition is the largest competition of American wines in the world. An elite panel of 60 judges representing trade, education, media, retail and restaurants judged a record of 4,234 wine entries from 1500 wineries across the country.
In addition, Vineyard and Winery Management Magazine has invited Gray Ghost to pour the 2006 Adieu and 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon at the prestigious "Best of the East" Gala held at its National Wineries Unlimited Conference in March. Invitations are reserved for wineries whose wines have demonstrated outstanding performance in National wine competitions throughout the year.
Gray Ghost Featured at American Wine Society National Conference
Posted: November 18, 2007
Al and Cheryl Kellert, owners and winemakers of Gray Ghost Vineyards and Winery in Amissville, Virginia had the distinction of being asked to represent the State of Virginia as speakers at the 40th Anniversary National Conference of the American Wine Society held November 1st through 3rd in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This Annual conference features prominent American and international speakers conducting seminars and lectures on all aspects of wine appreciation, wine production, grape growing and cuisine.
Al Kellert spoke about the history of grape-growing and winemaking in Virginia that began 400 years ago in May. He traced the major historical impacts on the Virginia wine industry including favorable laws, State support on three levels - viticulture, oenology and marketing, and the impact of the wine industry on tourism numbers as well as tax dollars. Virginia currently has over 130 registered wineries and over 350 independent vineyards with well over 3000 acres of vineyards planted. Virginia produces more than 300,000 cases of wine per year, contributing in excess of $100 million to the state of generating over half-a-million tourists per year.
He concluded his primary presentation by focusing on the history of Gray Ghost Winery from 1987 to the present day. Kellert emphasized Gray Ghost's international recognition and reputation in the form of 342 medals awarded in the last 4 years alone, with 71 of those being "Best of Class", "Best of Show", gold or double gold awards. "This effort on our part supports our belief that Virginia's wine industry will reach international status only if Virginia itself becomes recognized as a great wine growing region such as is the case in California and Europe," said Kellert.
Cheyl Kellert focused on the vineyard practices that have enabled Gray Ghost to become an internationally acclaimed gold-medal winning winery. She stated that 80% of Gray Ghost's labor is devoted to vineyard practices. The attention to detail in the vineyard consists of balanced winter pruning followed by bud management in the spring. Shoot positioning and tying occurs all summer with leaf pulling if the season requires it. "As a result of this vineyard emphasis, the winemaking process begins with high-quality fruit and therefore requires little manipulation of the wines in the winery," stated Cheryl.
The presentation concluded with a tasting and in-depth discussion of four Gray Ghost wines: 2006 Chardonnay, 2006 Reserve Chardonnay, 2006 Cabernet Franc, and 2006 Adieu.
Over 520 people attended the convention that was held at the Benton Convention Center. The American Wine Society is a national, non-profit, consumer-oriented organization devoted to educating people on all aspects of wine. Its members include wine experts, novices, grape growers, amateur and professional winemakers, chefs, wine educators and restaurateurs. There are currently over 5,000 members from the United States, Canada and 11 other countries in more than 110 AWS chapters.
Gray Ghost Takes Two Golds, Sweeps International Wine Competition!
Posted: September 21, 2007
Gray Ghost captured two more gold medals and swept its 9th competition of the year at the Wine Lovers Consumer Competition held in Washington, DC the end of August. Gray Ghost won on every wine entered: Gold medal winners were the 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and 2006 Merlot. Silver medals were awarded to the 2006 Adieu and 2005 Reserve Chardonnay. The 2006 Cabernet Franc and 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon each took bronzes.
The Wine Lovers Consumer Competition is sponsored by the Tasters Guild International and is the only competition of its kind in the country. In its second decade, the competition judges are comprised solely of wine consumers. Wines are judged not only on the appeal of aroma and taste, but also on value in price categories. Gray Ghost has historically performed well in this competition, sweeping seven years!
In addition to the Tasters Guild International win, Gray Ghost swept Virginia's annual Governor's Cup wine competition taking silver on the the 2005 Reserve Chardonnay and bronze on the 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and 2006 Adieu. The Governor's Cup is the premier wine competition in Virginia.
Gray Ghost Awarded "Best of Class" in California, Again!
Posted: July 5, 2007
For the second time this year, Gray Ghost's 2006 Adieu (late harvest Vidal Blanc dessert wine) has been awarded "Best of Class" honors in a California wine competition. The Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition awarded Gray Ghost the "Best of Class" honors. Dubbed the Granddaddy of wine competitions, this year's 68th Annual Event received 3,789 wines from 950 wineries, with only 125 Best of Class Awards bestowed. Gray Ghost was the only Virginia winery to receive top honors in this competition! This is the second consecutive year Gray Ghost's Adieu has won "Best of Class" in this competition.
Gray Ghost's Adieu was also recently awarded a Gold at the San Francisco International Wine Competition, making this the fifth Gold this year - four of which were won in California wine competitions. "Gray Ghost Vineyards is definitely responsible for helping to elevate Virginia as a premier wine-growing region," said Cheryl Kellert co-owner and winemaker with her husband, Al.
Gray Ghost Vineyards Takes Two Golds,
Reserve Cabernet Ranks with California's Top Cabernets!
Posted: June 18, 2007
Gray Ghost's 2006 Adieu (late harvest Vidal Blanc) and 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon were both awarded Gold at the 30th Annual International Eastern Wine Competition! Gray Ghost's Reserve Cabernet competed in the ultra-premium over $25 Cabernet Sauvignon category and was the only non-California Cabernet to be recognized in the Gold and Silver categories. In addition, Gray Ghost's Adieu was the only Virginia dessert wine to take Gold in its category, and surpassed highly acclaimed ice wines for around the country. Gray Ghost also won Bronze on the 2005 Reserve Chardonnay, 2006 Gewurztraminer, and 2006 Vidal Blanc. This outstanding accomplishment comes on the heels of two Silver medal wins in California's Riverside International Wine Competition, again for the Reserve Chardonnay and Vidal Blanc.
"We have always utilized competitions as a way of comparing our wines to those of other wineries around the world. This year, we have noticed an even more interesting trend. Gray Ghost is not only winning Gold medals in some very prestigious competitions (especially the highly acclaimed California competitions), but also surpassing wines of much higher prices. We take pride in our commitment to quality and are thrilled to see such a wonderful value offered to the consumer," said Al Kellert, owner and winemaker with his wife Cheryl. This is the fifth competition Gray Ghost has swept since the first of the year.
The International Eastern Wine Competition is one of the oldest and largest competitions in the United States. The event is held each year in the Finger Lakes region of new York and receives over 2,100 entries from 16 countries and 34 states. Wines compete in each flight from other wines around the world and are evaluated by wine-knowledgeable professional, media specialists and winemakers who represent major east coast markets from Miami to Toronto. Gray Ghost has received recognition for 11 years in this well-respected competition.
Gray Ghost Takes Two Golds, Sweeps International Wine Competition
Posted: May 24, 2007
Gray Ghost swept the 20th Annual Tasters Guild International Wine Judging held in Grand Rapids, Michigan, winning medals on all nine wines entered and taking hom gold on the 2005 Reserve Chardonnay and 2006 Merlot! Gray Ghost earned six silver medals for the 2006 Adieu, 2006 Gewurztraminer, 2006 Seyval Blanc, 2006 Vidal Blanc, 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and 2006 Cabernet Franc. The 2005 Chardonnay was awarded a bronze. Joe Borrello, President of the Tasters Guild wrote, "Of the 1,911 wines entered, your wine was singled out by the judges - a most prestigious achievement." This is the fifth time Gray Ghost has swept this competition.
This news comes on the heels of an extraordinary wine in California's prestigious 2007 Pacific Rim International Wine Competition. Gray Ghost's 2005 Reserve Chardonnay was awarded Gold in this competition, surpassing more expensive Chardonnays from California powerhouses like Kendall-Jackson, Trefethen, and V. Sattui. Gray Ghost was the only Virginia Chardonnay to win Gold. In addition, Gray Ghost was the only Virginia wine to medal in three additional categories winning a silver on the 2006 Gewurztraminer and Bronze on the 2006 Adieu and 2006 Vidal Blanc.
Gray Ghost Takes "Best of Class" in California,
Sweeps Fourth Competition of 2007!
Posted: April 27, 2007
Gray Ghost's 2006 Adieu was awarded "Best of Class" and Gold at California's prestigious Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition! This "Best of Class" signifies that Gray Ghost's dessert wine Adieu, was found to be the most outstanding late harvest wine across all grape varietals and price categories. This is the fourth competition Gray Ghost has swept in 2007. Gray Ghost's 2005 Reserve Chardonnay won Silver and the 2006 Gewurztraminer and 2006 Vidal Blanc Bronze. Gray Ghost was the only Virginia wine awarded in each of these categories.
The Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition was established in 1990 and is open to wines produced anywhere in the "New World", including all of North America, Central America, South America, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Results of this competition are used to compile statistics for publications noted for determining America's most medal winning wines.
Gray Ghost Named "Best of the East" Fourth Consecutive Year!
Posted: March 12, 2007
For an unprecedented fourth consecutive year, Gray Ghost's Adieu received both First Place and Best Dessert Wine honors in the annual "Best of the East" competition conducted by Vineyard and Winery Management Magazine, a national wine industry publication! Al and Cheryl Kellert, owners and winemakers, were honored to accept the prestigious award presented by Richard Leahy, Program Director of Wineries Unlimited in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, March 8, 2007.
Each year, Vineyard and Winery Management Magazine honors the top ten scoring wines east of California. Rankings are based on the number of competitions a winery has won as well as what award the winery received (gold, silver, bronze). Gray Ghost not only had the highest scoring dessert wine but also was awarded first place over-all because the 2005 Adieu won in more International and National wine competitions than any other winery east of California! Gray Ghost is the only Virginia winery to be named "Best of the East". This announcement follows on the heels of four consecutive wins on Gray Ghost's current release, the 2006 Adieu in international competition, including a Gold at California's Grand Harvest Awards.
Because of the consistent and continuous success of Gray Ghost's Adieu, Al Kellert was asked to speak at Vineyard and Winery Management Magazine's annual Wineries Unlimited Conference. Mr. Kellert was the only individual asked to discuss late harvest/botrytis winemaking, while joining two renowned Ice Wine winemakers from Canada and Ohio. Kellert emphasized the importance of fruit quality in producing the Adieu. Botrytis (also known as "the noble rot") infected the Vidal Blanc grapes that make this wine. the Vidal was allowed to hang seven weeks later than it would normally be harvested. This extended hanging allows the botrytis to overtake the clusters, thereby concentrating the grape sugars. The result is intensely sweet grapes with heightened fruit character and a highly concentrated dessert wine in the end.
"It was a tremendous honor to be asked to speak at Wineries Unlimited. Then, to receive the 'Best of the East' honors for the fourth consecutive year was overwhelming! we continue to take a great deal of pride in our commitment to quality at Gray ghost and the resulting international attention it has brought Virginia wines," commented Al Kellert.
Gray Ghost Takes Gold in California,
Sweeps Third Straight Competition of 2007!
Posted: March 2, 2007
Gray Ghost's 2006 Adieu was the only Virginia wine to win Gold in California's prestigious Grand Harvest Awards held the end of February! This is the third consecutive competition that Gray Ghost has swept in 2007. Gray Ghost's 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon won Silver and the 2005 Reserve Chardonnay Bronze. According to the competition's press material, "The goal of the Grand Harvest Awards has been, and continues to identify the finest examples from each viticultural region.
This award follows on the heels of Gray Ghost sweeping the Florida State Fair International Wine Competition with silver medal wins for the 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2005 Reserve Chardonnay, and bronze for the Adieu. The Florida Competition garnered over 1,500 entries this year.
Gray Ghost Sweeps California Wine Competition!
Gray Ghost swept the San Francisco Chronicle wine competition for the second consecutive year, beginning the 2007 competition season as successful as 2006! In a competition dominated by California wine entries, Gray Ghost won on every wine entered! The 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon received the only medal awarded to a Virginia Cabernet. The 2005 Reserve Chardonnay garnered a silver medal making it the highest awarded Virginia Chardonnay in this prestigious competition. Gray Ghost's internationally recognized dessert wine Adieu also took home a bronze in the dessert wine category.
The San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition is the largest competition of American wines in the world. Founded in 1983, this year's competition garnered 3,800 entries from 1573 wineries in 20 states.
Gray Ghost Awarded Top Honors in California and Texas!
Gray Ghost captured top honors at two international wine competitions- winning a "Best of Class" in the Los Angeles County Fair Wines of the Americas International Competition and a "Grand Star" at the Lone Star International in Texas.
Gray Ghost's 2005 Vidal Blanc and 2005 Adieu both took Gold medals in Los Angeles, with the Vidal Blanc also awarded the coveted "Best of Class". Dubbed the Granddaddy of wine competitions and the oldest county fair competition in the country, this year's 67th Annual Los Angeles County Fair Wine Competition received an unprecedented 3,793 wines from 982 wineries in 18 countries. Gray Ghost's 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon was also awarded a bronze medal. Gray Ghost has won awards each of the eight consecutive years it has entered this competition and also been featured in the Los Angeles County Fair cookbook.
In addition to the "Best of Class" honor in California, Gray Ghost's 2005 Gewurztraminer won the "Grand Star Award" at the Lone Star International in Texas. The "Grand Star Award" is chosen out of all the Gold medal winning wines and is considered the competition's "Best of Show". This is the second consecutive year Gray Ghost has been awarded the "Grand Star" in Texas. Gray Ghost also took a silver on the 2005 Adieu and Bronze medals for the Victorian Red and 2005 Cabernet Franc in this year's competition.
The Lone Star competition, sponsored by the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association, has developed into an international competition over the last 20 years. This year's competition gleaned entries from seven foreign countries and 21 states. Michael Zerbach, Steering Committee Chair and a former president of the Association said: "This year we refocused the competition to serve as a better tool for wine consumers by selecting judges almost exclusively from wine retail businesses. These are the people who know to which wines consumers are responding."
Gray Ghost Cuts Ribbon on New Tasting Room!
Gray Ghost celebrated its Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting of the new tasting room on Saturday, May 20, 2006 with a ceremony that included State Senator Mark Obenshain, Delegate C. Todd Gilbert, and Gordon W. Murchie, Virginia Wine Industry leader.
Over 100 friends, guests and loyal customers gathered on a beautiful May morning at 10:00 am as Mistress of Ceremonies Amy K. Payette, Director of Marketing welcomed everyone. Delegate Todd Gilbert, 15th District, opened the ceremony by applauding the growth and success of the Virginia wine industry. He also acknowledged the impact that wineries have on agri-tourism, income the state receives from family farms such as the Kellerts.
Following his comments, Mr. Gilbert, a friend and former intern of Senator George Allen shared a letter from the Senator. In his congratulatory letter, Senator Allen said: "I applaud Al and Cheryl Kellert for their commitment to producing award-winning wine of which our Commonwealth can be proud. The namesake of their vineyard, Colonel John Singleton Mosby, who died 90 years ago this month, perfected the craft of surprise and left an unforgettable legacy. Similarly, Gray Ghost Vineyards has mastered the art of wine-making and has won distinction. I look forward to watching Gray Ghost Vineyards and Winery continue to thrive in the years to come."
Senator Mark Obenshain, 26th District and member of the Senate Agriculture Committee focused on the importance of wineries in Virginia to maintain our rural, agriculture areas. With over 100 wineries in the state of Virginia, the industry has gone beyond blossoming to a state of thriving and producing huge economic benefits to the Commonwealth. He also emphasized the role that wineries play in agri-tourism and how Gray Ghost has played such a major role in Rappahannock County. Senator Obenshain said, "Al and Cheryl are producing some of the finest wines anywhere in the United States, frankly anywhere in the world."
Gordon W. Murchie, President of the Vinifera Wine Growers Association, served as keynote speaker and took the guests through a journey that began in the 1600s. He spoke of Jefferson's early and failed attempts at grape growing and the evolution of the successful, thriving industry in the state of Virginia today. Mr. Murchie then focused on the importance of family wineries and how Gray Ghost epitomizes this concept. He also spoke of Gray Ghost's internationally awarded wines and how these awards have contributed to the elevation of Virginia's national wine reputation.
Ms. Payette introduced her brother Al, an integral contributor although often silent, member of the family and then took the guests through a journey that began with an experiment and dream in 1969. She shared with everyone the major milestones her parents, Al and Cheryl Kellert, had accomplished over the past 37 years. Accomplishments that included seven years of serious overhauling of an abandoned property, additional vineyard plantings, opening in 1994 and building renovations. "After a 37 year journey that began with a batch of homemade wine, it is my distinct pleasure to introduce to you the two hardest working people I know and the people that my brother and I are most proud of: Al and Cheryl Kellert."
Al and Cheryl, owners and winemakers, thanked the attendees for their support throughout the years. They acknowledged the help from both their children and the importance of the encouragement and dedication from friends and customers.
Three generations of Kellerts cut the ribbon on the new tasting room with the assistance of Delegate Gilbert, Senator Obenshain and Gordon and Anita Murchie. The ceremony was followed by a reception and tours of the new facility.
The Kellert family, residents of Rappahannock County for 20 years, started the vineyards in 1986 and opened the winery in July of 1994. Al and Cheryl were delighted to have friends, neighbors and customers attend and share in such a special event and would like to thank all for their support.
Gray Ghost Takes Gold in California!
Gray Ghost's 2005 Vidal Blanc won a gold medal at the Riverside International Wine Competition held in California April 28-30! One of California's largest, most renowned wine judgings, this year's event received 2059 entries, with only 10% awarded gold medals. In addition, Gray Ghost's 2005 Adieu was awarded silver.
Theses awards come on the heels of four additional California awards. The Vidal Blanc was awarded a silver medal and the Reserve Chardonnay a bronze in the Pacific Rim International Wine Competition. The 2005 Adieu garnered two additional bronze medals in the Pacific Rim International and the San Diego International Wine Competition. Gray Ghost continues to offer complimentary samples of the internationally awarded Adieu throughout the month of May!
Gray Ghost Named "Best of the East" the Third Consecutive Year and Receives Five Year Achievement Honors!
For an unprecedented third consecutive year, Gray Ghost's Adieu received both First Place and Best Dessert Wine in the annual "Best of the East" competition conducted by Vineyard and Winery Management Magazine, a national wine industry publication! In addition, Gray ghost received an award for Outstanding Achievement in the "Best of the East" recognizing the Adieu for Best Dessert Wine Performance over the past five years. Al and Cheryl Kellert, co-owners and winemakers, were honored to accept the prestigious awards presented by Richard Leahy, Program Director of Wineries Unlimited in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, March 14th.
Each year, Vineyard and Winery Management honors the top ten scoring wines east of California. Rankings are based on the number of competitions a winery has won as well as what award the winery received (gold, silver or bronze). Gray Ghost not only had the highest scoring dessert wine but also was awarded first place over-all because the 2004 Adieu won in more National and International wine competitions than any other winery east of California! Gray Ghost is the only Virginia winery to be named "Best of the East".
The Five Year Achievement Award recognizes Gray Ghost Vineyard's Adieu for garnering 83 medals including six "Best of Shows", three Double Golds and 19 Golds. For a limited time, visit Gray Ghost to view the display of the past five vintages of Adie and their honors before they are returned to the wine library. While enjoying the display, taste the intense 2005 Adieu, already and award winner at California's Pacific Rim International Competition and the only Virginia wine awarded in California's New World International Wine Competition. To celebrate these prestigious awards, Gray Ghost will offer complimentary tastings of the Adieu from now through the month of May!
"Our focus at Gray Ghost is to make the highest quality wines possible. Receiving the 'Best of the East' award three consecutive years on three different vintage wines and the Five Year Achievement Award illustrates our commitment to quality. We're thrilled to continually be bringing international recognition to Virginia wines!" commented Al Kellert.
Gray Ghost Takes Gold First Competition of the Year!
To begin the 2006 competition year, Gray Ghost's dessert wine, the Adieu, brought home the Gold from the Florida State Fair International Wine Competition! "This has reinforced our feelings about the 2005 growing season which has been hailed as one of the most incredible vintages in Virginia's modern grape-growing history," stated Al Kellert, co-owner and winemaker with his wife Cheryl.
The dry conditions in July and August resulted in concentrating the grapes' sugars and flavors thereby enhancing the intensity of the fruit. September of 2005 was recorded as the driest September on record in 121 years, contributing to an outstanding harvest!
In addition to the Gold medal, the Adieu also received a Bronze at the internationally acclaimed San Francisco Chronicle Competition in California! The Reserve Chardonnay was awarded a third consecutive year in the Florida State Fair taking home a Bronze, where 1239 wines were entered from across the United States and eight foreign countries.
Gray Ghost is pleased to announce the 2005 spring and summer wines are ready for the public to enjoy! "Now is the perfect time to visit Gray Ghost and enjoy these incredible 2005 wines and to relax in Gray Ghost's recently renovated spacious tasting room," commented Cheryl Kellert.
Gray Ghost Sweeps Wine Competition,
takes "Best of Show" and Four Golds
Gray Ghost swept the 2005 Mid-Atlantic Southeast Wine Competition capturing four golds, two silver, three bronze and the coveted "Best of Show" award for the 2004 Adieu (Late Harvest Vidal Blanc)! This "Best of Show" honor follows Gray Ghost's Chairman's Best of Class win for the Adieu in Long Beach, California. The Mid-Atlantic Southeast Wine Competition is held annually in October.
In addition, Gray Ghost also won Gold on the 2002 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, 2004 Merlot and Victorian Red. Gray Ghost's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon will be released November 5th at a black-tie gala release party. Silver and Bronze award winners were 2004 Reserve Chardonnay, 2004 Cabernet Franc, 2004 Chardonnay, 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon and Victorian White.
Gray Ghost Awarded Top Honors in California and Texas!
Gray Ghost received top honors with a Chairman's Best of Class award for the 2004 Adieu at the Long Beach Grand Cru in California and a Grand Star Award for the 2004 Vidal Blanc at the Lone Star International in Texas!
In its 11th year, the Long Beach Grand Cru is considered the "up-and-coming" competition of the millennium. It is the fastest growing professionally judged wine competition on the West Coast and attracts entries form across the United States and eleven other countries. With over 1,000 wines entered, Gray Ghost's dessert wine was recognized as one of the top wines in the world by achieving the Chairman's Best of Class status. This is the third consecutive vintage of Adieu to take top honors at an international wine competition. Join Gray Ghost throughout September as the Adieu is sampled complementary to celebrate the award!
The Lone Star International Wine Competition is held in Dallas, Texas and in its infancy focused on wines made primarily in the south. This year, the competition went international and Gray Ghost's 2004 Vidal Blanc won a gold and then was selected as a Grand Star Award Winner. Grand Star Winners are selected from among gold medal winners in each class. The Vidal is Lone Star's pick as the Best of Show White Wine in the competition! Gray Ghost received five other medals at the competition including a silver for the 2004 Adieu and 2002 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.
In addition to these top honors, Gray Ghost has taken home gold, silver and bronze medals this summer in the Virginia State Fair, Indy International Wine Competition, Atlanta International Wine Summit, Wine Lovers of Tasters Guild Competition, Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition and Amenti del Vino International Wine Competition.
"At Gray Ghost we believe in using wine competitions as a way to compare our wines to those of other great wineries around the world. To consistently wine in competition and take home top prizes year after year, just confirms our commitment to quality and reinforces Gray Ghost's recognition as a top wine producer across the country," commented Al Kellert, who is an owner and winemaker with his wife Cheryl.
Gray Ghost Named “Best of the East” the Second Consecutive Year!
Gray Ghost Vineyards 2003 Adieu received the “Best of the East” award presented by Vineyard and Winery Management Magazine, a national wine industry publication, for an unprecedented second consecutive year! In addition, Gray Ghost’s 2002 Reserve Chardonnay ranked in the top ten and was named “Best White Vinifera”. Al and Cheryl Kellert, co-owners and winemakers, were honored to accept the prestigious award presented by Richard Leahy, Program Director of Wineries Unlimited at the awards ceremony in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, March 23rd.
“There was strong competition in the Best of the East at Wineries Unlimited from wineries in 16 states. The top ten wines, in vinifera and hybrid categories, showed the diversity and high quality across the East today. Gray Ghost not only placed two wines in the top ten, winning two separate categories (best white vinifera for a reserve chardonnay and best dessert wine), but also their Adieu won the coveted top award for Best of the East for the second year in a row, a remarkable achievement,” declared Program Director Richard Leahy.
Each year, Vineyard and Winery Management honors the top ten scoring wines east of California. Rankings are based on the number of competitions a winery has won as well as what award the winery received (gold, silver, bronze). Gray Ghost was awarded first place because the 2003 Adieu won in more National and International wine competitions than any other winery east of California! Gray Ghost is the only Virginia winery to be named “Best of the East” as well as placing in the top ten multiple years. In addition, Gray Ghost was the only Virginia winery to be recognized at this year’s awards ceremony. In honor of this prestigious award, Gray Ghost will offer complimentary tastings of the Adieu throughout the month of May!
“Our focus at Gray Ghost is to make the highest quality wines possible. To be awarded the ‘Best of the East’ two consecutive years on two different vintage wines illustrates our commitment to quality. We’re thrilled to bring international recognition to Virginia and the wines that are made here!” commented Al Kellert.
Gray Ghost Sweeps Wine Competition, Takes "Best of Show"
Gray Ghost swept the 2004 Wines of the South Competition in Knoxville, Tennessee held October 30, winning medals on every wine entered and taking home the top prize of "Best of Show" for the 2003 Adieu!
The Wines of the South competition is an annual event encompassing entries from along the Eastern seaboard and southern United States. This year's competition saw 324 entries representing 7 states and 45 wineries. Gray Ghost's Adieu advanced through two rounds of judging before being named the top wine entered at this year's competition!
In addition to the Best of Show award, Gray Ghost took home Silver medals for the 2003 Chardonnay, 2002 Reserve Chardonnay and Victorian Red. Bronze medals were awarded to the 2001 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon and Victorian White.
Al Kellert, co-owner with his wife Cheryl, commented, "We couldn't be any more thrilled with the news! This si the final competition of the year and to receive Best of Show is an incredible honor and a nice way to finish an incredible year!"
Gray Ghost Wins Seven Golds-Sweeps Wine Competition!
Gray Ghost swept the 2004 Mid-Atlantic Southeast Wine Competition taking home seven Gold medals and two Silver medals for the nine wines entered, making Gray Ghost the most awarded Virginia winery in the competition! The Mid-Atlantic Southeast Wine Competition is held annually in October in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Gray Ghost's Gold medal award winners are 2002 Chardonnay, 2002 Reserve Chardonnay, 2001 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003 Adieu, 2003 Chardonnay and Victorian White. The 2003 Cabernet Franc and Victorian Red were each awarded Silver medals.
The seven Gold medals follows closely on the heels of Gray Ghost's two Double Gold medals awarded in the Tasters' Guild Consumer Wine Judging in D.C. for the Reserve Chardonnay and Adieu. In honor of these awards, Gray Ghost will be sampling their 2003 Adieu (Late Harvest Vidal) complimentary throughout the remainder of the year or while supplies last!
Gray Ghost Wins Two Double Golds, Sweeps Wine Competition!
Gray Ghost swept the 2004 Tasters Guild Consumer Wine Judging in Washington, D.C. this August, winning medals on every wine entered including Double Gold medals for the 2003 Adieu (Late Harvest Vidal) and the 2002 Reserve Chardonnay!
Yogi Barrett, Executive Vice President of the Tasters Guild, explained that to receive Double Gold medals, a wine must initially be determined unanimously a gold by each panel member. If a wine receives a unanimous gold in the first round, it is then sent to a second panel of judges (different from the first) and judged. If the wine is determined a second time to be a unanimous gold by all of the judges on the panel it is then declared a Double Gold medal winner. If only one judge in the second round determines it is not a gold, then no Double Gold medal is awarded.
“So you see,” adds Mr. Barrett, “it is a very difficult procedure for a wine to receive a Double Gold, and if one does, it dictates that the wine is exceptional in quality! Therefore, I must again congratulate the Gray Ghost Winery on the two Double Gold Medal winners you received. It proves Gray Ghost is one of the best wineries from Virginia!”
Amy Payette, Director of Marketing commented, “Every year I look forward to the results of the Tasters Guild Consumer Wine Judging. It is the only competition in the country where wines are evaluated strictly by consumers. It is the highest honor to receive awards in this competition because it expresses the depth that consumers enjoy Gray Ghost wines. We are thrilled to be awarded on every wine we entered!”
In addition to the two Double Golds, Gray Ghost was awarded a Gold on the 2003 Seyval Blanc, Silvers for the 2002 Chardonnay, 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003 Cabernet Franc and a Bronze for the 2001 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.
Gray Ghost Wins Gold Twice!
Gray Ghost’s 2003 Vidal Blanc took home the Gold at back to back international wine competitions held in July. The Vidal Blanc won a Gold in the Lone Star International held in Texas as well as a Silver for the 2003 Adieu and Bronze medals for the 2002 Chardonnay and 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon.
The following week, Gray Ghost won a Gold for the Vidal Blanc at the prestigious Indy International Wine Competition! Gray Ghost swept this competition with Bronze medals on the other five wines entered: 2003 Adieu, 2002 Chardonnay, 2002 Reserve Chardonnay, 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon and 2003 Adieu. The Indy International is the third largest competition in the country and the largest outside of California. The 2004 competition saw the most entries in the competition’s history with the least amount of awards bestowed, making for a highly competitive field.
Al Kellert, co-owner, said, “These medals are exceptionally rewarding since they once again demonstrate that Virginia wines continue to be the very best among those produced throughout the United States as well as internationally.”
Gray Ghost Named "Best of the East"!
Gray Ghost Vineyards 2002 Adieu received the "Best of the East" award presented by Vineyard and Winery Management magazine, a national wine industry publication! The presentation ceremony took place Wednesday, March 17th in Lancaster Pennsylvania, at the annual Wineries Unlimited Conference. Al and Cheryl Kellert, co-owners and winemakers, were honored to accept the prestigious award presented by Richard Leahy, Program Director of Wineries Unlimited. Richard commented: "The Adieu is a very elegant example of the finesse you can achieve with late harvest Vidal. It's nice to have the Best of the East to recognize that outstanding quality achieved outside of California."
Each year, Vineyard and Winery Management honors the top ten scoring wines east of California. Rankings are based on the number of competitions a winery has won as well as what award the winery received (gold, silver, bronze). Contributing to the win as "Best Dessert Wine" accolades from the Atlanta International Wine Summit and awards in every International wine competition in California.
Gray Ghost was awarded first place because the 2002 Adieu won in more National and International wine competitions that any other winery east of California. Gray Ghost is the only Virginia Winery to be named "Best of the East" as well as placing in the top ten multiple years. As part of the 10th Anniversary Celebration, during the month of April, Adieu will be sampled complimentary on the weekends.
Gray Ghost Only Virginia Winery Awarded in California!
Gray Ghost recently won bronze medals on the 2002 Chardonnay and 2002 Reserve Chardonnay in the Jerry Mead International Wine Competition in California held February 29 and March 1! This is the first time Gray Ghost has entered this prestigious competition. Of the 2,178 entries from North America, Central America, South America, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, Gray Ghost was the only Virginia winery to be awarded! Results of this competition are used to determine America's most medal winning wines by the California Wine Winners, California Grapevine and California Gold Wine List publications.
Gray Ghost also received honors on the 2002 Chardonnay and 2002 Reserve Chardonnay at The Grand Harvest Awards in Santa Rosa, California in January. The Grand Harvest Awards evaluates the effect of terroir on wines as well as the wine quality, further exemplifying Virginia as a quality wine-growing region. Gray Ghost has been awarded medals every year at the Grand Harvest Awards.
Vintage 2003- Quality Prevails!
At Gray Ghost, our winemaking philosophy has always been that quality wine begins in the vineyard. Vintage 2003 tested growers throughout the state. We spent long intense hours working in the vineyard, which rewarded Gray Ghost with top quality fruit and an abundance of it! Because of attention to detail, our grapes were able to weather the hurricane and dry afterwards, we did not need to harvest prematurely. Most of the harvests took place in October.
We are thrilled to continue to offer exceptional wines at Gray Ghost. Both whites and the reds are displaying well-rounded flavors and elegant finishes. We invite you to visit and truly enjoy the fruits of our labor!