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.

Photo Contest & Event Memories
July is here, summer is at its peak, and wine season is shining brighter than ever! From holiday celebrations and backyard BBQs to beach days, concerts, fireworks, and sunset evenings with friends, there are endless reasons to pour a glass and make the most of the season. For this month’s… Read more: Photo Contest & Event Memories
601 Home Wines Judged at Annual Competition
On June 6, the Orange County Wine Society hosted our 50th annual Home Wine Competition in the Courtyard and Huntington Beach building. I am happy and proud to say that it went off in a wonderfully successful manner, thanks to all our 80 stewards and support staff, 10 members from… Read more: 601 Home Wines Judged at Annual Competition
Wines Erupting With Flavor
I have recently read a number of articles about volcanic wines, wines made from grapes grown on the very diverse volcanic soil. And naturally since California has the most vineyards planted in volcanic soil in the U.S., volcanic wines are of interest. While Europe’s volcano activity dates back eight million… Read more: Wines Erupting With Flavor
Looking for OC Fair Buttons for 50th Anniversary Display
Are you one of the many OCWS members who has been attending the OC Fair for decades? In honor of our 50th anniversary, and our 50-year relationships with the OC Fair, we will be showcasing a collection of OC Fair pins that feature a different fun theme each year. We… Read more: Looking for OC Fair Buttons for 50th Anniversary Display
Candidates encouraged to get involved, toss their hat in the ring
It’s the most wonderful time of the Year. Summer, the fair, and time to think about running for the OCWS Board of Directors. Please note that the earlier you declare, if you’re working at the fair and events you can campaign with your friends and fellow members. You can hear… Read more: Candidates encouraged to get involved, toss their hat in the ring
A Vintner’s Irreverent Musings
Differences between Commercial and Homemade Wine I am an artist and a lover of wine. A known contrarian. And after years of creating scores of wines of different varietals, an award-winning home winemaker. Let us get the foundation of my experience straight, right off the bat. Establish my perspective so… Read more: A Vintner’s Irreverent Musings
President’s Message
Fred Heinecke This is the season for the OC Fair Wine competitions. The Commercial Competition took place May 30 and 31 at the Costa Mesa Hilton. The 50th annual was the big event and a big success. The Commercial Wine Competition Committee always strives for, and each year seems to… Read more: President’s Message