About Us

The Orange County Wine Society, a non-profit organization that promotes the knowledge and appreciation of wines, is dedicated to raising funds for college scholarships for institutions throughout California. The volunteers of the organization, while enjoying social events, wine tastings and trips throughout the year, is best known for coordinating the OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition and running the wine courtyard at the fair each year. Within the OCWS lies an active home winemaking group which, along with their passion for making fine wines, runs the Homewine Competition which is also highlighted annually at the OC Fair.

The varied interests and social opportunities offered through the OCWS has something for everyone, from people just beginning to find enjoyment with wine in their lives and wanting to learn more to the well versed fine wine lover looking to share their passion with others of like mind.

From Home Winemaker to Best of Class
By Fran Gitsham For most of us the pleasure of tasting and learning about wine is enough, but for that handful of people who want more, savoring the drink is just not enough. For the brave who venture into the corners of their kitchens, garages, backyards and even bathrooms to… Read more: From Home Winemaker to Best of Class
Wine Ranking: A Clear Winner Emerges
Results from the Sept. 6 Gold Medal Mini-Tasting are in. With 10 wines evaluated by 160 people across 10 host sites, the results show a clear hierarchy among the wines. The ratings, which were tallied to determine a total score, highlight several standout performers. The 2023 Petit Verdot by ZD… Read more: Wine Ranking: A Clear Winner Emerges
Chefs of the Evening
Egyptian Barley Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette Chef was Mary Dee Kienstra using a recipe by Once Upon a Chef, Jenn Segal Inspired by the flavors of Egypt, this gorgeous barley salad is adorned with feta, scallions, pistachios, raisins and pomegranate seeds. Servings: 6 to 8 Ingredients
Roll Out the Barrel
The transportation of wine became an opportunity looking for an answer once wine consumption moved beyond the vineyard and winery locations. The evolution of transporting wine started with using animal skins which often leaked and allowed the wine to oxidize and spoil. Terracotta amphorae quickly became the animal skin replacement… Read more: Roll Out the Barrel
A History of the Board of Directors
The 50-year history of the Orange County Wine Society cannot be told without acknowledging the women and men who have served on its Board of Directors. The board has always been the heart and soul of the OCWS—the ultimate volunteers, dedicating their time and talents to keep the organization thriving.… Read more: A History of the Board of Directors