The 2023 California State Fair, held from July 14 to July 30 at Cal Expo in Sacramento, was a vibrant celebration of the Golden State’s food culture, bringing together local artisans, food enthusiasts, and industry professionals. Known for its rich agricultural history, California took center stage this year with a showcase of everything from olive oils to craft beers, emphasizing the growing importance of sustainability, local sourcing, and innovation in the food industry. Several key events stood out, demonstrating California’s dominance in the artisanal food market and its commitment to sustainability.
California Commercial EVOO Competition: A Celebration of Excellence in Olive Oil
One of the highlights of the fair was the California Commercial Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) Competition, a key event that recognizes the best olive oils produced within the state. California is one of the largest producers of olive oil in the United States, and this competition draws top producers from across the region to compete for prestigious awards.
This year’s competition saw Olive Truck’s Coratina win the coveted Best of Show Extra Virgin Olive Oil award. Known for its full-bodied, peppery flavor, Coratina olive oil from Olive Truck has made a mark in the industry for its high quality and distinctive taste. The Best of Show Flavored Olive Oil award went to Sciabica’s California Olive Oil Basil Co-Milled Flavored Herbal Oil, which impressed the judges with its fresh and herbaceous notes, reflecting California’s growing expertise in creating innovative flavored oils.
In the artisan producer category, Olive Truck’s Coratina took top honors again, solidifying the brand’s place as a leader in the California olive oil market. Another notable winner was Séka Hills’ Taggiasca EVOO, produced by a large-scale operation that emphasized the balance between large-scale production and artisanal quality. Séka Hills, a well-respected name in the industry, received the Best of California EVOO by a Large Producer award, showing that large producers can also maintain high standards in quality and sustainability.
The competition’s success serves as an important reminder of California’s leadership in olive oil production, particularly with its commitment to high standards and environmentally-conscious farming practices. Olive oil continues to be a vital part of the state’s agricultural identity, with its impact reaching both local and global markets.
Best of California Brewfest: A Toast to Local Craft Beer
On July 22, 2023, the Best of California Brewfest took place at Heart Health Park in Sacramento. The event drew thousands of craft beer aficionados eager to sample some of the best brews California has to offer. The festival celebrated the state’s innovative craft beer industry, which has become a vital part of California’s food and beverage scene.
The highlight of the event was the announcement of Monk’s Cellar from Roseville as the Brewery of the Year. Monk’s Cellar is known for its dedication to producing high-quality beers with a focus on European brewing traditions, and this award further solidified the brewery’s reputation as a leader in the craft beer space.
The festival was not only about awarding excellence in brewing but also about educating attendees on the diverse flavors and styles of beer crafted in California. Local breweries showcased everything from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, and visitors were able to interact with brewers, learn about the brewing process, and discover new favorite beers.
The Best of California Brewfest continues to reinforce the state’s role as a craft beer capital, with California producing some of the best and most creative beers in the country. Local craft breweries, like Monk’s Cellar, benefit greatly from the exposure and recognition provided by the fair, boosting their visibility and connections within the industry.
Alice Waters: Advocating for Sustainable Food Practices
Chef Alice Waters, an icon in the food world and a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement, delivered a keynote address at the State Fair, further emphasizing the importance of sustainability and local agriculture. Waters, who founded the celebrated Chez Panisse in Berkeley, is known for her unwavering commitment to supporting local, organic farmers and creating food that reflects the seasonality of the ingredients.
In her speech, Waters highlighted the urgent need for a sustainable food system that prioritizes healthy soils, biodiverse crops, and fair labor practices. She spoke passionately about the role of local agriculture in shaping not only the state’s food culture but also its broader economic and environmental health. Waters urged attendees to continue supporting California’s small farmers and food artisans, recognizing them as critical to the future of the food industry.
Her presence at the fair further elevated the importance of sustainable food practices, inspiring food enthusiasts and industry professionals to engage in more mindful food choices. Waters’ keynote provided an essential platform for discussions around climate change, food justice, and the necessity of local sourcing—topics that have become more urgent as the food system grapples with the effects of environmental degradation.
The Lasting Impact on California’s Culinary Landscape
The 2023 California State Fair served as a vital platform for showcasing California’s exceptional food culture. From its world-class olive oils to innovative craft beers, the fair demonstrated how deeply ingrained artisanal food production is in California’s identity. For small producers and large-scale operations alike, participating in events like the California Commercial EVOO Competition and the Best of California Brewfest provides valuable exposure, allowing local businesses to connect with industry leaders, chefs, and consumers who share a passion for quality food.
These events also reflect California’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, which has become an increasingly important factor for consumers. By spotlighting environmentally conscious practices in olive oil production and craft beer brewing, the State Fair has reinforced the Golden State’s reputation as a leader in sustainable food production.
Moreover, the presence of Alice Waters and her call for stronger support for local food producers highlights the growing emphasis on sustainability in California’s food culture. As the farm-to-table movement continues to evolve, California’s food scene is positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of food production worldwide.
Conclusion
The 2023 California State Fair, with its carefully curated events like the California Commercial EVOO Competition and the Best of California Brewfest, has once again demonstrated the Golden State’s leadership in the food industry. The fair continues to celebrate not only the excellence of California’s food producers but also the innovation, sustainability, and community that define the state’s culinary identity. For both small and large producers, the fair serves as a reminder of the immense potential in supporting local food systems and the value of sharing culinary traditions with a global audience.
As the fair wrapped up, it was clear that California’s vibrant food scene, fueled by artisans, innovators, and advocates like Alice Waters, is poised for continued growth, with sustainability at its core. With the increased recognition and support of these food creators, California remains a beacon of culinary excellence for the nation and the world.
