George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Ontario Wine Awards
Founded in 1995 by Tony Aspler, Order of Canada Recipient, the Ontario Wine Awards celebrate the very best of Ontario VQA wines, recognizing exceptional quality, character, and craftsmanship across the province.
Beginning in 2026, the Awards enter an exciting new chapter through a shared hosting partnership between George Brown Polytechnic and Niagara College. Launching in Toronto at George Brown, the event will rotate annually between the two institutions, creating expanded opportunities for students to take part in mentored judging and gain invaluable, hands-on experience behind the scenes of one of Ontario’s most prestigious wine competitions.
The Ontario Wine Awards showcase VQA varietal excellence across 32 categories, with wines recognized at the Bronze, Silver, and Gold medal levels by panels of respected industry judges. Outstanding students in wine studies will also have the opportunity to apply to judge the Student Choice Award, while the prestigious Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Ontario Wines will be presented in June 2026, marking a highlight of the celebration.
Ontario Wine Awards 2026
Wineries
George Brown Polytechnic is proud to host the 2026 Ontario Wine Awards, and we invite you to be part of this celebrated showcase of Ontario VQA excellence. This is your opportunity to place your wines among the province’s most distinguished producers and gain recognition on one of Ontario’s most respected wine stages.
Key Dates
Application Deadline: May 12, 2026
Judging: May 30, 2026
Location: George Brown Polytechnic, 300 Adelaide St. East, Toronto
Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Ontario Wines: June 16, 2026
Judges
We are thrilled to invite you to join the judging panel for the 32nd annual Ontario Wine Awards, celebrating the very best of VQA wines from across the province. Your expertise, insight, and discerning palate play an essential role in recognizing excellence and helping elevate Ontario’s vibrant wine industry. It would be an honour to have you contribute to this respected and longstanding competition.
To be considered, please submit your application by May 1, 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by May 4, 2026.
Key Dates
Judging: May 30 to May 31, 2026 (Please note that you are not required to attend both days)
Location: George Brown Polytechnic, 300 Adelaide St. East, Toronto
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Our Valued Sponsors
Student Leadership Sponsor (Exclusive)
Platinum Sponsor
