The Tasting Alliance

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) stands as the most prestigious competition in the world, setting the industry standard for excellence. Recognizing both globally renowned distilleries and rising small-batch producers, SFWSC medal winners earn widespread recognition and respect. The 2026 competition is now open for entries. 

From classic cocktails and hard seltzers to cutting-edge creations featuring hemp and alternative ingredients, The San Francisco Ready-to-Drink Competition celebrates the full spectrum of ready-to-enjoy beverages. With expert judges evaluating taste, balance, and creativity, this event highlights the best in a rapidly evolving category that continues to redefine the drinking experience. The 2026 competition is now open for entries. 

The Asia World Spirits Competition (AWSC) showcases the vibrant and rapidly evolving spirits industry across Asia and Australasia, with class codes designed to reflect regional production and consumption trends. As both the world’s largest producer and consumer of spirits, Asia plays a pivotal role in shaping the global market. An AWSC medal serves as a powerful mark of distinction, helping brands stand out while guiding consumers and the trade toward spirits truly worth discovering.

Proof of Concept is a storytelling-driven podcast from The Tasting Alliance exploring the ideas and makers behind Double Gold–winning spirits. Hosted by Toby Blue and Jason Rabinowitz, the series goes beyond the medal to uncover what it truly takes to win at the highest level.

The San Francisco International Wine Competition (SFIWC), founded in 1980, set the gold standard for professional wine evaluation, pioneering the rigorous blind judging process that The Tasting Alliance upholds across all its competitions. As the flagship event in our portfolio, SFIWC has provided wineries with a prestigious platform for global recognition, establishing a benchmark for quality and excellence. For over four decades, SFIWC has remained a trusted authority, celebrating wines from around the world and helping brands gain credibility, visibility, and consumer trust. As the wine industry continues to evolve, the competition embraces emerging trends, offering expanded categories that highlight regional distinctions, organic and natural wines, and innovative winemaking practices. With its legacy of integrity and influence, SFIWC remains an essential opportunity for wineries to stand out in an increasingly competitive market. The 2025 competition is now closed for entries. 

The 2026 Latin America World Spirits Competition will take place March 25–26 at the new Tequila Lab in Zapopan, Mexico — a state-of-the-art hub for innovation and education in Mexico’s iconic spirit. Now in its second year, LAWSC invites brands of all sizes to showcase their craft across categories including Tequila, Mezcal, Raicilla, Sotol, Bacanora, and more, all evaluated through The Tasting Alliance’s blind judging process led by experts from Latin America and the U.S.