October 9, 2025 - Santa Rosa Junior College’s (SRJC) Shone Farm has earned multiple awards at this year’s Sonoma County Harvest Fair, which celebrates its 50th anniversary and celebrates the region’s agricultural, winemaking, artisan, and culinary excellence.
Shone Farm received the Excellence in Local Food Production award, recognizing its decades-long role in agricultural education and sustainable farming. SRJC students cultivate a diverse range of crops sold commercially to local restaurants, food banks, and through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. A portion of the produce also supports SRJC’s basic needs program, providing healthy food for food-insecure students.
“Shone Farm has become a hub for agricultural education and innovation, a cornerstone of industry here in Sonoma County,” said Connor Murphy, Shone Farm Director. “It’s a real training ground for the next generation of agricultural and environmental leaders who are cultivating the future. It is so motivating for students to get this kind of community recognition.”
Shone Farm’s estate-grown olive oil, Miller’s Blend, was awarded Best in Show in the olive oil competition for its delightful flavor, vibrant color, and captivating aroma.
Wines produced by Shone Farm, located in Forestville and nestled in the Russian River Valley AVA, also impressed judges:
- 2023 Pinot Noir (estate grown) - Double Gold
- 2024 Sauvignon Blanc (estate grown) - Gold
- 2023 Chardonnay (estate grown) - Gold
- 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon - Gold
The award-winning wines and olive oil will be available for purchase at the annual Shone Farm Fall Festival on Saturday, October 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and year-round on the Shone Farm website (https://shonefarm.santarosa.edu). Shone Farm wines will also be poured by SRJC Shone Farm employees at the Harvest Fair Gala that evening at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds.
Shone Farm, along with five other Harvest Fair Agricultural Award recipients, will be honored at the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors meeting on October 14, where the Board will issue an official resolution recognizing the awards.
