Excellence deserves to be recognized. For over four decades, the San Francisco International Wine Competition (SFIWC) has set the global standard for professional wine evaluation. Established in 1980, SFIWC pioneered the rigorous blind judging process that remains a cornerstone of The Tasting Alliance competitions today. This approach ensures that every wine—whether from a celebrated estate or a rising small-batch producer—is evaluated solely on its merits.

A medal from The Tasting Alliance is more than a stamp of quality. It’s a powerful accelerator for brand growth. Our competitions are the most influential in the industry, helping wineries earn trust from consumers, secure support from distributors, and stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

At The Tasting Alliance, fairness isn’t a tagline. It’s the foundation of our process. Our world-class judges include Master Sommeliers, winemakers, buyers, journalists, and industry leaders. Each flight of wines is evaluated blind, meaning judges never see labels or bottles. Not price. Not producer. Not region. Nothing that could bias perception.

This ensures that a legacy brand competes on the same playing field as a newcomer. The result is a universal indicator of exceptional quality and craftsmanship that consumers, retailers, and distributors trust.

Day 1 & Day 2: Panel Tastings
Judges taste through entries category by category, scoring each wine according to its sensory excellence. Panels determine whether submissions earn Bronze, Silver, Gold, or the coveted Double Gold—awarded only when every judge agrees a wine is Best of Class quality.

Day 3: Sweeps Round
During this collaborative session, judges determine which wines will claim the highest honors of Best of Class and Best in Show. These distinctions highlight the truly extraordinary among the exceptional.

Winning a medal at the San Francisco International Wine Competition opens doors. Our results rollout includes press coverage, social promotion, tailored marketing assets, and placement across The Tasting Alliance’s platforms. Medalists gain lasting exposure to trade professionals and consumers who look to our winners for guidance on what to buy and pour. Whether you are debuting a new label or reinforcing the legacy of a flagship vintage, SFIWC provides the visibility and credibility to help your wine shine.

Join the industry’s most trusted competition and unlock opportunities that go far beyond the award.

⏳ Registration Deadline: November 7, 2025
📦 Sample Deadline: November 21, 2025
🌍 International Import Assistance Deadline: October 24, 2025