LDV Winery Takes Top Honors at International Wine Competition

Arizona’s LDV Winery, which has a tasting room in Old Town Scottsdale and its vineyard and estate in the Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona, recently received two top honors at the 2023 Sunset International Wine Competition in Santa Rosa, Calif. LDV’s 2017 syrah received the bronze medal while the winery’s 2016 “The Signature” petite sirah was awarded the silver.

“Producing high-quality wines is our passion, and it is so rewarding and validating when we receive honors at such a prestigious competition,” says Peggy Fiandaca, who co-owns LDV Winery with winemaker Curt Dunham. “We are grateful for the Sunset International Wine Competition for recognizing our efforts, and we aim to continue producing award-winning wines that put Arizona on the wine industry map.”

The2017 Syrah is a 100% Syrah was aged for 62 months in new American oak barrels. Featuring a touch of the smoke and spice of the barrel, this wine exhibits traditional black and blue fruit such as blackberry and blueberry with licorice and gardenia floral note. The 2017 Syrah pairs nicely with smoked cheddar, grilled filet mignon, and New York strip steak.

“The Signature” Petite Sirah is LDV’s 2016 vintage wine barrel aged for 33 months in 100 percent new American oak. An ultra full-bodied wine with dark cherry flavors and a lingering spiced blueberry pie finish, “The Signature” has integrated tannins that pair well with rich proteins like ribeye steaks and short ribs, as well as dark chocolate and bold cheeses.

The Sunset International Wine Competition is judged by fellow winemakers, qualified members of the media, educators, researchers, sommeliers, and retail buyers.