Southeast Winemaker Challenge Announces 2026 Best in Class Double Gold Winners
June 25, 2026 — The 2026 Southeast Winemaker Challenge is proud to announce Arrington Vineyards as the 2026 Southeast Winery of the Year, recognizing the winery’s outstanding performance across this year’s competition and its continued excellence in regional winemaking.
“It’s an honor to receive the 2026 Southeast Winery of the Year award! This award is a celebration of Tennessee winemaking at Arrington Vineyards and the people behind it. Every vintage is an opportunity to raise the standard and share what our region can produce.”
The Southeast Winemaker Challenge celebrates excellence in winemaking across the region, recognizing standout wines that demonstrate quality, craftsmanship, and distinction within their respective categories.
In addition to Winery of the Year honors, the competition announced its Best in Class Double Gold winners for 2026:
Sparkling Wines — Tie
Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards — Pink Crescendo
Florida Orange Groves and Winery — Sparkling Blackberry
White Wines
La Famiglia Vineyards & Winery — Traminette
Blush and Rosé Wines
Arrington Vineyards — Firefly 2025
Red Wines
Sassafras Springs Vineyard — Syrah 2024
Native American and Hybrid Wines
La Famiglia Vineyards & Winery — Doleezza
Fruit Wines, Vermouth and Other Wine Types
Arrington Vineyards — Sweet Blues 2024
Fortified Wines
San Sebastian Winery — Cream Sherry
The 2026 winners reflect the diversity and strength of southeastern winemaking, with top honors awarded across sparkling, white, rosé, red, hybrid, fruit, and fortified wine categories.
The Southeast Winemaker Challenge congratulates Arrington Vineyards, all Best in Class Double Gold winners, and every participating winery contributing to the continued growth and recognition of the region’s wine industry.
About the Southeast Winemaker Challenge
The Southeast Winemaker Challenge recognizes outstanding wines produced by wineries across the southeastern United States. Through professional judging and category-based awards, the competition highlights excellence, regional character, and the growing quality of wines made throughout the Southeast.
