Honors Presented at Sonoma County Winegrowers Annual BBQ
As preparations for the start of the winegrape harvest get underway, Sonoma County winegrape growers gathered today for their annual BBQ to celebrate the season ahead and to honor two outstanding leaders whose contributions continue to strengthen the region's reputation for excellence in winegrowing and sustainability.
The 2026 Viticulture Award of Excellence was presented to the Mauritson family, who have farmed in Sonoma County for more than 150 years. The 2026 Sustainable Winery Award was presented to Foley Family Wines & Spirits, one of the wine industry’s leading family-owned wine companies.
“These awards celebrate the people and organizations that represent the very best of Sonoma County agriculture and wine,” said Karissa Kruse, chief executive officer of Sonoma County Winegrowers. “From the Mauritson family’s six generations of farming excellence to Foley Family Wines & Spirits’ commitment to sustainability, workforce development, and community impact, these honorees demonstrate that exceptional wines begin with exceptional stewardship. Their leadership continues to strengthen Sonoma County’s reputation as one of the world’s premier winegrowing regions.”
The Mauritson family first established roots in Dry Creek Valley in 1868. Since then, they have helped shape Sonoma County's reputation for premium winegrapes through exceptional farming, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the land, qualities that embody the spirit of the Viticulture Award of Excellence. Today, the Mauritson family continues their stewardship of 300 acres of vineyards across Dry Creek Valley, Alexander Valley, and Rockpile growing regions.
“We are honored to receive the 2026 Viticulture Award of Excellence. For six generations, we've farmed in Sonoma County and are grateful for this recognition of our commitment to responsible land stewardship and our community,” said Cam Mauritson, Managing Partner.
The Sustainable Winery Award, presented to Foley Family Wines & Spirits, recognizes the company for its commitment to sustainable winegrowing practices, support of agricultural workers and their families, investment in workforce development, and its dedication to strengthening communities throughout Sonoma County. Through the company’s philanthropy, community leadership, and ongoing support of programs that create opportunity and build resilience, Foley Family Wines & Spirits has helped advance a more sustainable future for Sonoma County agriculture.
“What an honor it is for Foley Family Wines & Spirits to be recognized by Sonoma County Winegrowers through its Sustainable Winery/Producer Award,” said Courtney Foley, Executive Vice President. She added, “This award is a testament to the dedication of our teammates, who continue to advance our sustainability efforts while supporting the people and places that make Sonoma County so special. My family is deeply committed to Sonoma County and is proud to give back to a community that has given us so much.”
Presented annually, the Sonoma County Winegrowers industry awards recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership, innovation, and commitment to sustainability continue to advance the region's reputation for world-class winegrowing while ensuring the long-term viability of agriculture for generations to come.