Author: Wendy Taylor

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50th Anniversary

50 Years of Passion, Community & Wine — A Year-Long Celebration in 2026

By Carolyn Christian – 50th Anniversary Committee Chair

What began in 1976 as a small gathering of friends—led by Brant and Kathi Horton and united by a shared love of winemaking—has grown into one of the most vibrant and respected wine societies in the country. No one could have imagined that casual meetings at a local wine shop and in members’ homes would blossom into a thriving nonprofit organization approaching 1,000 members and celebrating 50 extraordinary years.

In 2026, the Orange County Wine Society will proudly mark this golden milestone and we are celebrating all year long. From signature events to special surprises, historic moments to red-carpet photo ops, every part of OCWS will reflect the legacy, friendships and passion that have defined us for half a century—and we hope you’ll be part of every moment.

OC Fair Wine Competitions: Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence

Just one year after OCWS was founded, a partnership with the OC Fair gave rise to what would become our flagship events—the OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition and the OC Fair Home Wine Competition. First held in 1977, 2026 marks the 50th Annual competitions for both.

This milestone year promises to be better than ever. The Commercial Wine Competition continues to spotlight both established and emerging wineries, connecting them with the influential Southern California wine market. Meanwhile, the Home Wine Competition celebrates creativity, craftsmanship and camaraderie among amateur winemakers from across California.

The Courtyard at the OC Fair: Where the Public Celebrates With Us

The Courtyard has long been the heart of OCWS during the OC Fair—a place where award-winning wines come to life for fairgoers. While our location has evolved over the years, The Courtyard has been our home for decades.

During the 50th anniversary year, the celebration continues at the fair. Look for special displays, photo opportunities and fun surprises as we share our 50-year story with the more than 1 million visitors who pass through the fair each season.

OCWS Wine Auction: A Member Favorite Gets a Golden Twist

The OCWS Wine Auction has become one of the most anticipated member perks of the year, offering exceptional wines at a fraction of retail prices. As we prepare for future competitions and make room in our cellar, members enjoy access to more than 1,000 (4 bottle) lots of outstanding wines.  In addition to great wines, the auction will feature exclusive, wine-related experiences, trips and items.

In honor of our 50th Anniversary, expect something extra special. Members who spent over $1,000 at the 2025 Wine Auction will receive a unique VIP treatment at the 2026 event. 

Scholarship Program: Investing in the Future of Wine

Education has always been at the heart of OCWS. Established as a 501(c)(3), the organization expanded its mission in 1981 by launching a scholarship program to support students pursuing wine-related studies.

What began with just two institutions—UC Davis and CSU Fresno—has grown to support eight colleges and universities. In a fitting tribute to our 50th anniversary, the 2026 scholarship allocations push OCWS’s total scholarship amount past the $1 million mark. This remarkable achievement reflects decades of member generosity and commitment to the future of the wine industry. (See the full scholarship article in this newsletter for details.)

Preserving Our History: The 50th Anniversary Committee and Memorial Fund

The 50th Anniversary Committee has been hard at work preserving our rich history—scanning photos, archiving memorabilia and gathering stories from long-time members through our Vintage Member Luncheons, which will continue in 2026.

To support these efforts, we’ve launched the 50th Anniversary Memorial Fund. Donations to the fund will help preserve photos, videos and keepsakes, create new historical videos and produce a 50th anniversary coffee table book documenting OCWS’s incredible journey. Donations may be tax deductible, and every contribution helps ensure our story is preserved for generations to come.

Membership Events: 50 Years of Celebrating Together

Our official 50th anniversary celebrations kick off on January 11, 2026, with a special 50th Anniversary Bubbles ’n’ Brunch at the Orange County Mining Company—a longtime member favorite. While the event is currently sold out, members are encouraged to contact the office to join the waitlist.

OCWS has always been about its members. From early membership barbecues and legendary chili cook-offs to holiday celebrations and social gatherings, community has been our hallmark.

Today, we continue that tradition with New Member Mixers and Spring and Fall Socials—and for our 50th Anniversary, the Fall Social will take a fun step back in time with a 1970s Disco Party, honoring the decade when OCWS was born.

Winery Programs: Honoring the Best of the Best

Another cornerstone of OCWS is our Winery Program, which grew out of year-round monthly meetings featuring winemakers sharing their stories and wines.

Today, the program runs from January through April or May, with each month highlighting a winery that earned top honors in previous competitions.  2026 is no exception, with all participating wineries earning Double Gold medals at the 2025 OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition. The lineup includes wineries that have been around decades (Trentadue Winery and Dry Creek Vineyard), and those who have been around only a few decades (Miro Cellars, Macchia and Graveyard Vineyards) all with the common theme of achieving great acclaim with their wines.

Join the Celebration—All Year Long

Throughout 2026, look for the OCWS red carpet at events, where you can snap photos, record videos and share your favorite OCWS memories. Be sure to pick up your 50th anniversary logo merchandise, available through donations to the 50th Anniversary Fund or by purchasing items from our merchandise coordinator, Courtney—or both!

Thank you for being part of the Orange County Wine Society’s remarkable 50-year journey. Here’s to the friendships, the memories, the wines—and to the next 50 years. Cheers!

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President's Message

President’s Message

By Fred Heinecke

As we ring in the new year, the Orange County Wine Society has much to look forward to.

It all starts with our 50-year jubilee. Carolyn Christian and the 50th Anniversary Committee have events planned for a year-long celebration. The kick-off 50th Anniversary Champagne Brunch is scheduled for Sunday, January 11.

I have to wonder if our founding members imagined that the OCWS would grow to nearly 1,000 members and host the largest California-only commercial wine competition in the world that draws about 2,500 entries a year from throughout the state.

When they wanted to make wine education part of our mission, could they have foreseen the tens of thousands of fairgoers at The Courtyard for tastings and seminars? The nearly $1 million in scholarship donations raised to date is truly exceptional. The founding and long-time members should take great pride and pleasure in their successes.

The next big news is our fair offices are moving to a new location. For years, the OCWS office has been in a temporary trailer that became even more temporary when building 15 was removed. For our 50th, we are moving to the Ranch building. This is a permanent structure that backs up to Arlington and is just east of the sports arena. Our new digs will be much larger than the current trailers with indoor restrooms, a full kitchen and close parking. The move should take place rapidly.

Lastly, it is with a heavy heart I must report some sad news. Jim Burk, a 24-year member of our organization, passed away in November. Jim was the official OCWS photographer for most of those 24 years and he could always be seen at OCWS events with his camera around his neck. Jim worked at The Courtyard every summer and was famous for the wonderful smoked salmon pate that he caught himself, smoked himself, and brought for a snack. His photographic history of the Wine Society recorded almost one half of our first 50 years. 

I know that Jim enjoyed wine, but he truly loved the friendships that the Orange County Wine Society brought. Please raise a glass (of zin if you have it) to our friend Jim Burk. 

In Memoriam

Jim Burk was such a genuinely kind soul. I’m incredibly grateful for the time I was able to spend with him as my mentor, and I will always cherish those moments. He will be deeply missed.

-Sue England, OCWS director

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Members Corner Scholarship News

Scholarship Program Reaches a Major Milestone

The 2026 Allocations Push OCWS Scholarships Past $1 Million!

By Damian J. Christian, Scholarship Chair

A historic milestone has been reached—and it’s one worth raising a glass to. With the 2026 scholarship allocations, the Orange County Wine Society has officially surpassed $1 million in total scholarships awarded, reaffirming OCWS’s long-standing commitment to education and the future of the wine and culinary industries.

For 2026, OCWS has proudly awarded $47,767 in scholarships to eight outstanding educational institutions across California. This year’s contributions bring the Society’s total scholarship giving since 1981 to an impressive $1,006,184—a remarkable achievement made possible entirely through the passion, generosity, and dedication of OCWS members.

These scholarship funds are raised through multiple OCWS-supported efforts, including the OC Fair Wine Courtyard tips, Featured Winery Program, OCWS Wine Auction, Commercial Competition Judges’ stipend donations, and generous member contributions. Every dollar represents a shared belief in supporting students who will shape the future of winemaking, viticulture, culinary arts, and wine business.

OCWS extends heartfelt thanks to every member and volunteer whose hard work helped make this milestone possible. Together, we are investing in education, opportunity, and the continued growth of our industry.

2026 OCWS Scholarship Allocations

University / CollegeProgramAllocation
Allan Hancock CollegeViticulture & Enology$5,833
Cal Poly PomonaAgricultural Science$5,713
Cal Poly San Luis ObispoWine & Viticulture$5,713
CSU FresnoViticulture & Enology$5,713
Orange Coast CollegeCulinary Arts$5,753
UC DavisViticulture & Enology$5,813
Napa Valley CollegeViticulture & Winery Technology$7,513
CSU Sonoma / CunninghamWine Business$5,713
Total Disbursements$47,764

Help Us Keep the Momentum Going

You can support the OCWS Scholarship Fund at any time and be part of shaping the next generation of wine and culinary professionals.

Two easy ways to donate:

  1. By Mail – Mail your check to:
    OCWS
    P.O. Box 11059
    Costa Mesa, CA 92627
    Attn: Scholarship Fund
    A donation acknowledgment letter will be sent to you.
  2. Online – Log in to your account at ocws.org and visit:
    ocws.org/product/scholarship-donations/
    Donate online and print your tax receipt instantly.

Together, we’ve crossed the $1 million mark—let’s continue building a legacy that supports education, excellence, and the future of our industry.

Categories
Education Wine Education Wine Wisdom

Wine Wisdom

Timeless Fun Facts Dating back to the ’80s

The Orange County Wine Society (OCWS) is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year.

In OCWS’s April 1986 newsletter entitled, “Free Run”, there was a section titled “Did You Know That…”  This section of the newsletter offered interesting short notes on wine information, somewhat similar to our “Wine Wisdom” column but very much short and sweet, a format CL and I have yet to master!  Just for kicks, and of course wine education fulfilment, we would like to share the April 1986 section with you – enjoy!

“Did You Know That…

  • 90% of all wines produced in the world are made to be consumed within one year
  • Antarctica is the only continent in the world not producing wine
  • Italy is the major wine exporter in the world
  • In Kenya, the three major vineyard pests are giraffes, hippos and termites
  • In colonial America, Madeira was the most accepted wine to serve guests
  • Under French Law, the highest classification given to wines from the Burgundy Region is Grand Cru
  • The Romans were most responsible for spreading viticulture throughout Europe
  • Sauternes is the traditional wine served with Roquefort cheese

Now if that is not interesting enough for you, grab a bottle of your favorite wine and ponder the many aspects of not only wine, but how wine fun facts, most times, are timeless. Cheers!

—CL Keedy and Linda Flemins, Co-chairs Wine Education Committee

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Members Corner

2025 Holiday Dinner Dance – Wrap up

By Carolyn Christian

The holiday season kicked off in style last month with the annual OCWS Holiday Dinner Dance. This year over 100 guests enjoyed the event at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Costa Mesa with wines from the OCWS Cellar and their own private collections. Marc from Sterling DJ spun tunes until the very end of the event and the dance floor was never empty.

As a special treat, the photography committee set up a festive backdrop by the Christmas tree and provided a printed copy of photos with members donning silly festive glasses and hats. New this year, we also had a drawing for door prizes to those in attendance, including gift cards to the Wine Lab and tickets to South Coast Repertory Theater.

Thank you to all the attendees who brought toys for the Spark of Love Toy Drive. The Costa Mesa Fire Department was so appreciative of the donation that filled two tables.  These donations will make a difference in the lives of less fortunate local children.

A special thank you to those who helped make the event possible:  Damian Christian, Adrienne Amico, Tricia Shelton, Kelly Haggard, Rochelle Randel, Dino Amico, Sue England, Kevin Coy and a great group of volunteers who helped with setup, check-in, photo booth and clean-up. We greatly appreciate everyone’s efforts and hope everyone who attended had a great time. Look for a special Holiday Dinner Dance in 2026 to commemorate our 50th Anniversary.

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Mini Tastings

Mini-Tasting Results

WINNER:
Carol Shelton 2021 Rockpile Reserve
2021 Florence Vineyard, Sonoma
14.8 ABV / $45

Congratulations to Carol Shelton’s 2021 Rockpile Reserve for a solid win over some tough competition. Clay Shannon’s Ovis Cabenet Sauvignon won in three host locations, tying the Carol Shelton for the number of host wins; however, didn’t have the dominating numbers as the Zinfandel. Peju’s Chardonnay came in third place. 

Only some 14% of California wineries report having a lead winemaker who is a woman. Yet, in each of the past five years, 20% to 30% of the wineries included in these highly regarded “Top 100 lists” have lead women winemakers, further supporting, and illuminating, the greater recognition accorded to these winemakers.

Thanks to all the hosts and guests who weathered the rainy night to make the night a success. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves and the selection of wines. 

–Don Mayer, OCWS Mini-Tasting Chair

The following individuals were the Chef of the Day winners from the November 15 Mini-Tasting:

Cathy Risling                          Chicken Marsala

Kevin Coy                               BBQ Lasagna

Craig Stark                              Tri-Tip

Judy Shapel                            Vichyssoise Soup

Trisha Shelton                         Lasagna Soup

Diane & Kyle Coker                 Brisket 

Mary Dee Kienstra                  Pecan Bars (Recipe Attached)

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Members Corner

The Year in Review

As we approach the 50th anniversary of our esteemed organization, let’s reflect on the year that was and the accomplishments that were reached.

As always, OCWS was graced by a stellar slate of wineries from across California, featuring their finest offerings at dinners in Costa Mesa. Whether it was the Bushong Vintage Company or Wildeye Winery, members were treated to a bevy of beverages while gaining valuable insight into the winemaking process.

OCWS also was fortunate to have a series of new events. In January, a handful of members boarded trains bound for Los Angeles and were treated to the Uncorked LA Wine Festival at Union Station (and will again this January, see article inside). The year is being capped with a visit to Old Town Orange this month where members will make candles for the holiday season with wine provided by Seis Soles.

Not to be outshined, everything was coming up roses at the Vines in Bloom Spring Social in May and bellies were filled with chili in October at the Hoedown Fall Social.

The annual auction was another rousing success as more than 4,300 wines went to loving homes where barren racks and cellars needed to restocked. Gross revenues were nearly 10 percent more than was projected.

The Commercial and Homewine competitions once again took Herculean efforts by dozens of OCWS members and recognized the top winemakers across the state.

The OC Fair was another successful endeavor as more than 200 members volunteered for a slew of shifts. There were more than 7,500 tastings of award-winning wines, the Featured Winery Program took in just over $30,000 that will be directed toward the Scholarship Fund and 10 of the 16 wine seminars were sold out.

Sprinkled throughout the year were some unique events. There was an enjoyable road trip to Sycamore Ranch Vineyard & Winery near Lake Arrowhead. Members puckered up for a citrus winemaking course. Others refined their senses at the wine defect workshop. And the beloved Mini-Tastings that ranged from guests detecting which wines were from Coastal or Inland California to featuring women winemakers was enjoyed by all who attended.

All of which is to say – there’s a fair share of events and 2026 promises to showcase the very best of what OCWS has to offer. So raise a glass to OCWS and have a happy holidays.

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Members Corner

President’s Message

By Fred Heinecke

The  holidays … they are the best time of times and the busiest of times. Thanksgiving leftovers have been fashioned into turkey and cranberry sandwiches and heartily consumed. The holiday decorations are out of the box and in their December niches. The parking at the mall is actually worse than you remembered and each day your mail box has enough catalogues to sink a small battleship.

With all the hustle and bustle, it is all too easy to forget the holidays are about friends and family. For 49 years the Orange County Wine Society has been bringing friends together over a glass of wine, often with a fine meal. We should not forget that there is always a wine that pairs well with beef, lamb and difficult relatives.

This year, December presents three fun get-togethers; the Holiday Dinner Dance on Dec. 5; the Seis Soles Wine Tasting and Candle Making on Dec. 10; and the Winemakers holiday party on Dec. 20. Next year, we celebrate the organization’s golden jubilee starting with the 50th Anniversary Champagne Brunch on January 11.

All of these events keep with the OCWS holiday traditions and thus I would like to offer a toast.

May your year be full with good friends

May your glass be full with good wine

May your heart be filled with joy

May you always have a good time

Cheers and Happy Holidays!

P.S.  There is one long-standing tradition in our home that has evolved. In days of old, chocolate chip cookies and cold milk were dutifully left out on Christmas Eve. In modern times, an open bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon and a glass are placed near a charcuterie board.

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Members Corner

President’s Award

Spotlight on Two Dedicated OCWS Members

By Carolyn Christian – Past President

Earlier this year at the annual business meeting, I had the honor of awarding the coveted President’s Award to two very deserving individuals. The President’s Award is given each year to an individual who has shown commitment to the organization over an extended period of time and always goes above and beyond when volunteering for OCWS events. I wanted to share more information on each of the recipients to recognize them for their long-time dedication to the organization.

Jim Burk

Jim Burk joined OCWS in 2001 quickly became the official OCWS Photographer, following in the footsteps of Kevin Lite and George Hammond. He served as our photographer for nearly 25 years, making him the longest-serving individual in this position. He has documented our organization over the years, taking photos of our membership BBQs and socials, the OC Fair competitions, winery programs and more.  When Jim first started as photographer, OCWS printed duplicate sets of photos and brought a set to each event for members to go through and take home their favorite shots. Now in the digital age, photos are stored on hard drives, and the best photos of each event are posted on Facebook.

Ed Reyes

Ed Reyes joined OCWS in 2006 after enjoying The Courtyard tastings and seminars for several years. Ed served as an OCWS board member from 2010 to 2013, wanting to help recruit and retain members. He organized several bus trips and helped start the New Member Mixers.  Mentored by members of the Winemakers’ Group like Rich McCormick, Ed began making his own wine in 2010 and won his first medal in 2013 – a silver for Nero d’ Avola.  For the past several years, he has served as the head of the Winemakers Group, helping elevate their visibility within the organization.

When you see either of these individuals at OCWS events, please join me in thanking them for their commitment and service to this organization. It takes a village of volunteers to keep this organization running smoothly and as we near our 50th anniversary, I am very proud to have had the opportunity to recognize these two deserving individuals with the President’s Award.

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Members Corner

2026 Road Trip

Who wants to hit the road in 2026? In recognition of our organization’s 50th anniversary, we are considering visiting one of the wine regions. In past years, trips have been taken to Napa, Paso Robles, Temecula and the Santa Barbara region.

To get a better idea if members are interested and what they would like from a trip, here is a survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BBBLTDG. Please fill it out if you are interested and the results will be posted in the January newsletter. The survey will close on Dec. 15, so please let us know.

Also, if there is enough interest, a committee will be created to help with various aspects of the trip. If you are interested in filling a role, please email editor@OCWS.org.

—Greg Risling, Co-Executive Editor, The Wine Press