Michigan wine producers gathered for one of the state’s most respected industry competitions. Once again, St. Julian Winery & Distillery earned top recognition.
At the 2026 Michigan Governor’s Cup Awards, St. Julian captured 22 total medals. The winery also earned one of the competition’s highest honors. St. Julian’s Braganini Reserve Cabernet Franc, 2022 vintage, earned a Gold Medal. It also won the 2026 Taste MI Governor’s Cup Case Best of Competition honor. As a result, St. Julian strengthened its reputation as Michigan’s most awarded winery.
The Michigan Wine Collaborative and Beverage Tasting Institute organize the annual competition. Together, they highlight excellence in Michigan-produced wines, ciders, and meads. Professional judges evaluate entries through blind tastings. These tastings identify the state’s top-performing beverages.
Beyond its top-winning Cabernet Franc, St. Julian received nine additional Gold Medals across a diverse portfolio of wines. Honored selections included Braganini Reserve Late Harvest Vignoles; Braganini Reserve Winemaker’s Series Cabernet Franc Rosé; Braganini Reserve Founder’s Series Mountain Road Rosé; Braganini Reserve Founder’s Series Pinot Noir Rosé; Braganini Reserve Barbera; Braganini Reserve Tempranillo; Ciao Bolle; Braganini Reserve Cabernet Franc, 2023 vintage; and Braganini Reserve Winemaker’s Series Bold Cabernet Sauvignon.
“These recognitions reflect the commitment our winemaking team brings to every bottle,” said Nancie Oxley, Vice President of Winemaking. “We strive to showcase the quality and character that Michigan vineyards can achieve, and it is gratifying to see those efforts acknowledged by respected industry judges.”
St. Julian also earned nine Silver Medals and three Bronze Medals. Altogether, the winery earned 22 medals across multiple wines.
“Receiving this level of recognition is a tremendous honor,” said Apollo Braganini II, President of St. Julian Winery & Distillery. “Our family has spent generations building this winery, and awards like these are a testament to the dedication of our employees, growers, and partners who help make these achievements possible.”
Many of the wines recognized during this year’s competition are available exclusively through the St. Julian Wine Club. Members enjoy access to limited-production releases and small-lot wines that are often unavailable outside the club.
A complete list of 2026 Michigan Governor’s Cup winners can be found through the Michigan Wine Collaborative. Learn more about our Wine Club, award-winning wines, and tasting rooms.
