New SipSource data reveals a widening gap between wine and spirits performance, with sparkling wine, Sauvignon Blanc and the on-premise channel emerging as important bright spots.
New awards and serving-format recommendations reflect the growing role of cans, mini bottles, wine cups, and other individual formats in modern hospitality.
The first group of judges for the ninth edition includes Master Sommeliers, wine directors, and senior professionals from leading U.S. hospitality businesses.
The Sommeliers Choice Awards proudly welcomes Heather Durham-Birley, Kat Hawkins, and Greg Spalding to its 2026 judging panel — a trio of accomplished wine professionals who bring education, leadership, and service excellence to the competition.
The winery's passion lies in showcasing the powerful, concentrated and structured fruit of Washington State through the European art of blending - not only through various combinations of Bordeaux and Rhone grape varieties, but also via combining fruit from acclaimed vineyards to express the unique terroir of the region.