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.

CHEF OF THE EVENINGNew Zealand Potato Bake (A.K.A. Scalloped Potatoes)
Cherryl Baker 2 garlic cloves, halved 2 Tbsp butter 4-5 medium to large russet potatoes, peeled & sliced into ¼ inch slices 12 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (including 6 oz aged cheddar) 12 oz whole milk 12 oz heavy whipping cream 1/8 tsp nutmeg Salt & ground pepper Preheat the… Read more: CHEF OF THE EVENINGNew Zealand Potato Bake (A.K.A. Scalloped Potatoes)
Sign-Up Planning for The Courtyard
March is here and we are getting ready for the series of sign-ups for The Courtyard. Volunteering to help is an exciting opportunity to meet members, learn about different wines and enjoy the OC Fair. Cashiers will be able to sit throughout their shift. Stewards work involves standing to carry… Read more: Sign-Up Planning for The Courtyard
RBS Certification: 1 month closer
Before we know it, the OC Fair will be upon us again. The largest OCWS fundraising effort of the year will be taking place for a total of 23 days, Wednesdays through Sundays, July 17 through Aug. 16. Volunteering at The Courtyard is a unique and fun experience. All Courtyard… Read more: RBS Certification: 1 month closer
Do You Want to be a Wine Judge?
The 50th annual OC Fair Home Wine Competition will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at the OC Fair and Event Center. We need close to 100 volunteers to serve wine, handle scoring, interface with the judges, set up, clean up, mail awards, and do much more. Over the… Read more: Do You Want to be a Wine Judge?
How Sweet It Is
Maybe I am showing my age. No, I am definitely showing my age by using Jackie Gleason’s famous line as the title of a Wine Wisdom about mead. Mead, the product of yeast turning a honey and water mixture into alcohol. A natural fermentation that, as a result of archaeologic… Read more: How Sweet It Is
Purveyors of Ports
Described as the perfect prescription for Port lovers since 1979, Prager Ports Works in Napa has been family owned and operated for three generations. Of the third generation, John Prager, along with six siblings, comes from a legacy of not only fine port purveyors, but long-time supporters of the OC… Read more: Purveyors of Ports
President’s Message
By Fred Heinecke What a great start we had to the 50-year jubilee at the sold-out Orange County Mining Company Champagne brunch. Bubbly is the finest way to celebrate the many years of friendship, wine and fun the Orange County Wine Society represents. Hats off to Rochelle Randel for making… Read more: President’s Message