These entries are respectively called the Red Sweepstakes and White Sweepstakes winners. They are the most sought after at the public tasting and usually sell out on the retail level shortly after the public announcement. The other medal-winning wines, especially the gold and silver, also enjoy a surge in sales. The money is distributed as year-end bonuses for all winery staff. Bonuses aside, the thrill of producing a medal-winning wines is gratifying enough.
Competitions applaud the human element in winemaking.
They confirm that great wine starts with great grapes and ends with great people.