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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.

A Legacy Born from the Love of Wine
Had it not been for a small band of like-minded, wine-loving people, the Orange County Wine Society would not be hosting the 49th annual OC Fair competitions today. In 1976, 16 people, out of their love of wine and interest in winemaking, began meeting the first Friday of each month… Read more: A Legacy Born from the Love of Wine
President’s Message
By Carolyn Christian One of the greatest parts of leading this organization is working with so many individuals who are passionate about wine and about our organization. Like me, they have a long tradition of being fascinated by wine and choosing to donate their time. My introduction to OCWS was… Read more: President’s Message
Spring Social a bloomin’ success
We had a terrific time at the Vines in Bloom Spring Social on May 10. The Silent Auction brought in $1,200 and the Wine Wall brought in $1,100 for the Scholarship Fund! We are so excited to be able to contribute to the scholarships through our socials.The crowd ate fabulous… Read more: Spring Social a bloomin’ success
‘Find Your Happy’ setting up The Courtyard
It is amazing to experience the entire OC Fair setting up around us the week before it starts and you can be a big part of it all too. The Courtyard has always been a special place for the OCWS. If you enjoy using power drills and stepladders and wearing… Read more: ‘Find Your Happy’ setting up The Courtyard
Volunteers needed for annual Home Wine Competition
The 49th annual OC Fair Home Wine Competition will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa. This is one of the largest home wine competitions in California. Organized and sponsored by the OCWS Winemakers Group, it is run entirely by… Read more: Volunteers needed for annual Home Wine Competition
UPDATE: 2025 OCWS Scholarship Program
This year, the Orange County Wine Society donated $49,507 in scholarships to the eight academic institutions listed below. This years’ donations raised the total amount of OCWS scholarships awarded since 1981 to over $946,000. The scholarship funds come from a variety of sources, including tips at The Courtyard, OCWS Wine… Read more: UPDATE: 2025 OCWS Scholarship Program
In search of new OCWS photographer
Volunteer Opportunity After more than two decades of dedicated service as the official OCWS Photographer, Jim Burk has decided to retire from his role behind the lens. Jim has done an outstanding job documenting our events and members over the years, leaving us with a rich visual legacy. We are… Read more: In search of new OCWS photographer
Founding members start recruiting July 1976
A History of OCWS Membership The history of the Orange County Wine Society membership began in July 1976 when, through the efforts of Brant Horton and 18 other founding members, the OCWS was formed. In May 1976 Brant decided that the OC Fair would be an ideal candidate for hosting… Read more: Founding members start recruiting July 1976
Wine Wisdom: The origins of various wine aromas
You are watching Jeopardy and thinking about how easy it would be for you to win any wine category because not only do you love wine, but you drink a lot of it! Well, have you ever thought about wine aroma and where it comes from? We are going to… Read more: Wine Wisdom: The origins of various wine aromas