Aim the bottles and pop that cork because when it comes to podium celebrations, SCCA® competitors don’t just race hard, they spray hard. Few traditions are as effervescent as the post-race shower of sparkling wine, a ritual that traces its roots back to SCCA Hall of Famer Dan Gurney’s legendary bottle-spraying celebration after his “All American” Le Mans victory in 1967. Decades later, the bubbles are still flying – nearly two dozen times from the top step of the podium during a National Championship Runoffs® weekend alone, and triple that when you count full podiums.
That’s only the tip of the sparkling iceberg.
At the center of SCCA’s fizz is Mazza Vineyards, which for the 11th straight year has once again uncorked its role as the exclusive sparkling wine supplier for SCCA celebrations. The winery recently extended its agreement to keep the bubbly flowing at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs, the Hoosier Racing Tire SCCA Super Tour, the Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo Series (including the ProSolo Finale), and the SCCA RallyCross® National Championship. That’s a lot of effervescent fun.
Great wine, of course, starts long before the cork pops. Founded in 1972 by brothers Bob and Frank Mazza, Mazza Vineyards has grown from a family operation into a highly decorated name in the industry. Based in North East, PA, the company also produces high-end spirits and beer, with Mazza Vineyards serving as the flagship brand alongside Mazza Chautauqua Cellars and Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing in New York. In other words, Mazza’s portfolio has plenty of depth (and excellent legs, because we want to pour as many wine puns into this article as possible).
That dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Bob Mazza was named one of Wine’s Most Inspiring People of 2023 by Wine Industry Network for his work elevating Pennsylvania wine. And yes, that includes the very bottles raining down on SCCA podiums. Like a perfectly balanced blend, Bob’s own SCCA racing background pairs seamlessly with the winery’s success – proof that this sparkling wine is rooted in racing.
What’s Bob raced during his 30 years of SCCA membership? He competed in Formula Vee®, Club Ford, Formula Continental®, and D Sports Racing, and finally settled in a 2000 Toyota Celica GTS that was campaigned in Speed World Challenge and now runs in Super Touring® Under – and he’s enjoyed his fair share of podiums along the way.
SCCA members can also savor the benefits beyond the podium. Mazza Vineyards ships to most states, with free shipping on orders over $50 for SCCA members. Just head to the SCCA Member Benefits webpage to uncork the exclusive shipping coupon code.
The next time you see a driver shaking a bottle with mischievous intent and a grin as wide as the finish line, remember that sparkling spray isn’t just the sweet taste of victory – it’s the product of decades of passion, perseverance, and motorsports history.
To learn more about Mazza Vineyards and where to buy online or in-store, visit enjoymazza.com.
Cheers to that!
Photo caption: Jason Miller celebrates victory at the 2025 National Championship Runoffs by spraying his victory Mazza.
Photo by Rick Corwine
