February 5, 2026 — Entries for the world’s largest and most influential wine competition, Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA), will close on 17 March 2026.
Now in its 23rd year, the competition offers wine producers a trusted platform to benchmark wine quality and reach new markets, with medals representing an award of credibility recognised by trade and consumers worldwide.
DWWA is widely regarded as the global benchmark for wine quality, combining unrivalled judging expertise, international reach and a rigorous, transparent tasting process.
Each year, more than 18,000 wines from nearly 60 countries are blind-tasted by over 250 world-class experts, including Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, buyers, journalists, authors and educators.
Previous medal winners consistently report increased visibility, new listings and tangible export growth following results announcements. Producers also benefit from Decanter’s extensive global reach across print, digital, and social media, as well as exposure at key international trade events and fine wine tastings.
Regardless of whether their wine is awarded a medal, every entrant receives professional enhanced tasting notes, offering valuable insight to support future vintages and portfolio development.
Beth Willard, DWWA Co-Chair, commented “For producers, a DWWA medal is more than a seal of approval – it’s a catalyst for opportunity. The combination of expert assessment and global visibility makes it an essential investment for any winery looking to grow.”
For 2026, the awards introduce refreshed leadership within the judging team, reduced shipping costs for producers and continued innovation in sustainable operations.
The DWWA Co-Chair committee has been updated, with a new Resident Co-Chair role introduced. The position will rotate annually, bringing fresh perspectives from within the Regional Chair cohort.
Caro Maurer MW becomes the first to take on this position. Long-time Regional Chair for South & Eastern Mediterranean and, more recently, Germany, Maurer brings a wealth of experience and insight. She joins Andrew Jefford, Michael Hill Smith AM MW, Beth Willard and Ronan Sayburn MS on the Co-Chair panel.
Sustainability remains a core focus for DWWA, with initiatives including reusable packaging, onsite glass crushing and the conversion of leftover wine into clean energy. For 2026, reusable cotton blind-tasting bags will replace 20,000 single-use plastic bags, further reducing environmental impact.
The competition’s pioneering approach was recognised at the 2025 Green Awards UK, where DWWA was a finalist in two categories: Excellence in Waste Management and The Green Transformation Award.
In response to ongoing global cost pressures, entry fees for 2026 have been frozen at £172 with reduced consolidated shipping costs at £54. Producers can also drop-off samples at major trade fairs, including ProWein for £32.
Judging will take place in May 2026, where all submitted wines will undergo extensive blind tasting and re-tasting. Wines are assessed within their respective categories based on region, colour, grape variety, style, vintage and price point, ensuring fair, peer-based comparison.
Wines are awarded medals based on quality and distinction:
- Bronze (86-89 points): Well-made wines that offer balance and character.
- Silver (90-94 points): High-quality wines with notable expression and complexity.
- Gold (95-96 points): Outstanding wines that stand out in their category.
- Platinum (97-100 points): Exceptional wines of the highest quality.
From these, the top 50 Platinum wines are selected for Best in Show.
Entries are open now until 17 March. For full entry details, visit: enter.decanter.com
About DWWA
Launched in 2004 and now in its 23rd year, Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) is the world’s largest and most influential wine competition.
Run by Decanter, the world’s leading wine media brand, DWWA benefits from a trusted global audience of both trade and consumers, setting it apart from other competitions.
About Decanter
Decanter is the world’s leading wine media brand, reaching over 2 million users each month across print, digital and social channels. Renowned for authoritative tastings and expert commentary, Decanter has played a defining role in the global wine conversation since its launch in 1975.
