It is almost unfathomable that the OCWS created and has been hosting the OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition for 50 years. The just recently held 2026 competition was executed, as has come to be the norm, with exceptional professionalism. The attention to details was evident in every aspect of the competition, which created top-notch experience for judges and volunteers alike.
With over 2,500 wines entered, equating to the handling of upwards of 13,000 bottles or more, the magnitude of the tasks required to coordinate a successful competition is no small feat. The logistics and efficient coordination of every detail is overseen by a committee of 20 dedicated volunteers who, no sooner does one competition end, are already working on the next year’s competition and, although working on the next to come, planning is at least four years out with contracts already executed for the venue where the competition is held.
Although led by a committee of 20, it is the dedication of the hundreds of volunteers throughout the year that results in a competition that is highly respected within the wine industry. The integrity of the cataloging and bagging processes, coupled with the integrity of the judging process and everything in between, are what continue to make the competition a benchmark for excellence.
Kudos to all whose hands had a part in yet another extraordinarily successful OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition. The success of the competition is a true testament to the vision, leadership and tireless efforts of all.
—Fran Gitsham, OC Fair CWC Chair