The Tasting Alliance

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 open 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.

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. 

Celebrate creativity in the world of wine, spirits, and ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. The Tasting Alliance Design Competition honors excellence in packaging and branding, recognizing standout designs that captivate the eye and elevate the drinking experience. From elegant wine labels to bold spirit bottles and innovative RTD concepts, this competition showcases the art of visual storytelling in the beverage industry.

Bringing The Tasting Alliance’s blind judging to the East Coast, the New York World Spirits Competition highlights excellence in one of the world’s top spirits markets. With a focus on regional trends, it offers brands recognition, credibility, and key industry exposure. Judged by a panel of experts, the competition celebrates quality and craft. The 2025 competition results are now live.

Top Shelf 2025 brought together over 500 attendees in San Francisco for an unforgettable weekend celebrating the best in the global spirits industry. Across two days of master classes, tastings, networking, and the Top Shelf Awards Gala, the event showcased more than 200 award-winning products and created countless opportunities for brands, buyers, and writers to connect, collaborate, and celebrate craftsmanship at its finest.