Early Bird
Deadline
February 20, 2025
Judging
Date
July 28, 2025
Winners
Announcement
August 12, 2025
In the competitive world of winemaking, being named the Best Wine in the World as per USA Wine Ratings is an honor of high prestige. Terragena Wines has achieved this significant recognition for its Los Carneros Pinot Noir, cementing its place among the industry's elite. But this award-winning wine isn't just about accolades—it shows the brand's commitment to sustainable practices, ethical sourcing, and a passion for crafting unique wines that reflect the natural beauty of their origins.
Terragena Wines' Los Carneros Pinot Noir has taken the spotlight after being named the Best Wine in the World as per USA Wine Ratings 2024. This award is a significant milestone for the small, independent winery, which prides itself on its ethical, honest, and sustainable approach to winemaking. Chris Buchanan, owner and winemaker at Terragena, is thrilled by the achievement: "We're honored that the Los Carneros Pinot Noir, out of our Appellation Series, performed so well at the USA Wine Ratings 2024. We clearly set the bar high for ourselves with this newest endeavor where we play with quality grapes and craft wine to highlight the natural attributes of the grape as expressed in a particular geography."
Video: Terragena Carneros Pinot Noir - Wine Of The Year. Reviewed by Judge Susan R Lin MW.
Terragena's philosophy revolves around blending art and science to produce high-quality wines. Their focus on sustainability is not just a marketing point but a core value that drives every decision, from vineyard partnerships to production methods. “At Terragena, we aim high: to build a better world with the coolest wine,” Buchanan explains. This mission is evident in their dedication to sourcing grapes from select vineyards that share their commitment to stewardship. The diversity in these sources allows the production of a wide portfolio of wines, often single-vineyard varietals, at different price points.
Pinot Noir is particularly close to Buchanan's heart. He describes it as "one of the most expressive and interesting varietals" due to its ability to produce a wide range of wines depending on terroir. Alongside Pinot Noir, Buchanan also has a soft spot for Riesling, which he believes is a highly underrated varietal in the United States.
Terragena is constantly innovating, and its Appellation Series is a new endeavor that captures quality and geographic typicity in a larger volume and more accessible product. The Best Wine in the World as per USA Wine Ratings accolade for their 2021 Los Carneros Pinot Noir is a true attestation of the success of this new series and its appeal to both buyers and consumers.
2024 USA Wine Ratings: Terragena Carneros Pinot Noir - Wine Of The Year
The story behind the award-winning Pinot Noir from Los Carneros is one of conscientious care and attention to detail. Originally known for sparkling wines, the Californian region's still Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays have gained significant acclaim. Terragena's 2021 vintage was crafted with the same precision and dedication as their single-vineyard productions but on a larger scale.
What sets Terragena apart from its competitors is its independence and commitment to sustainability. In a crowded industry, they stand out by producing wines that are not only of high quality but also reflect their ethical values. Buchanan believes that awards like this can guide consumers toward recognizing the unique level of quality and value that Terragena offers.
Image: Chris Buchanan, owner and winemaker at Terragena.
Looking ahead, Buchanan is open to international expansion and is searching for the right partnerships to grow Terragena organically and sustainably. Currently, Terragena wines can be found online and at select small independent wine bars and retailers in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Terragena Carneros Pinot Noir, 96 Points.
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Terragena Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir, 71 Points.
Sustainability is at the heart of Terragena’s production process. The winery exclusively partners with family-owned vineyards that are eco-conscious and practice sustainable farming. Buchanan believes that this dedicated care not only produces the highest quality fruit but also contributes to a better world. "We believe sustainability starts with the vine, is incredibly important in the production of the wine, and that by educating consumers, we have the power to better the world and how people choose to consume wine," Buchanan says.
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As Terragena Wines continues to make waves in the wine industry, being named the Best Wine in the World as per USA Wine Ratings for their Los Carneros Pinot Noir is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication to sustainability, quality, and innovation. With its eyes set on the future, Terragena is poised to bring its exceptional wines to a broader audience, all while staying true to its core values of stewardship and ethical winemaking practices.
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