May 11, 2026 — Since 1985, the Pacific Rim International Wine Competition, hosted by the National Orange Show in San Bernardino, California, has stood as a beacon for exceptional wines, committed to celebrating the artistry and craftsmanship of winemakers. Held over two days on April 28th and 29th, this distinguished blind-tasting competition brought together invited wineries submitting their standout wines for evaluation. The event was overseen by Competition Chairwoman Nicole Orue and Chief Judge Tim McDonald, who guided the judging process as entries were assessed for recognition among the top selections.
The result is a curated selection of award-winning wines that exemplify excellence at every level. From vineyard practices to production standards, each recognized winery demonstrates an unwavering commitment to quality. Above all, these wines share a common trait: remarkable flavor and undeniable enjoyment in every glass.
As in years past, this year’s honorees reflect the innovation, passion, and skill that continue to define today’s dynamic wine landscape.
The 2026 Top Best of Class Award-Winners are:
- White & Best of Show: 2025 Hester Creek Old Vine Pinot Blanc – British Columbia
- Red: 2023 Wiens Cellars Reserve Syrah – Temecula Valley
- Sparkling & Harry McWatters Award: 2021 Underwood Rose Bubbles – Oregon
- Rose: 2025 Poplar Grove Rose – British Columbia
- Fortified: Presidential 20-Year-Old Tawny Port – Portugal (NV)
- Fruit: Barefoot Fruitscato Pineapple – California (NV)
- Cider: FireCiders Strawberry Rhubarb Cider – American (NV)
- Single Serve: Barefoot Moscato – California (NV)
- Non-alcoholic: Barefoot Bright & Breezy Pinot Grigio – California (NV)
- Don Galleano Award: 2023 Reddy Wines Syrah – Texas High Plains
The 2026 Label Competition Results:
- Best Individual Label:
- Gold: 2022 Frey Biodynamic Tempranillo – Mendocino
- Silver: 2023 Tongue Dancer Wines Pinot Noir – Sonoma Coast
- Bronze: 2024 South Coast Big Red Sunshine Primitivo – South Coast
- Most Unique Label:
- Gold: 2023 Tongue Dancer Wines Pino Noir – Sonoma Coast
- Silver: 2024 Cannonball Chardonnay – California
- Bronze: 2023 Reddy Syrah – Texas High Plains
- Best Label Series:
- Gold: 2023 Reddy Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve & Syrah, Aglianico – Texas High Plains
- Silver: FireCiders Elderberry & Rhubarb – American (NV)
- Bronze: Three Hammers Winery Poconos: 2023 Delaware Water Gap, 2023 Bushkills Falls – Columbia Valley & 2022 Jim Thorpe – Horse Heaven Hills Washington
For competition updates, check our website and social media:
- www.pacificrimwinecomp.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/PacificRimWineComp
- Instagram: @PacificRimWineComp
About the Pacific Rim International Wine Competition
Since 1985, the Pacific Rim International Wine Competition, hosted by the National Orange Show, has been a global showcase of excellence, recognizing outstanding wines and the dedication of winemakers. With a commitment to transparency and celebration, the competition continues to set the standard for honoring the finest wines.
