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.
- Green Room = Room 137
- Light Refreshments
- OWA Volunteer Shirt will be provided for the June 16th event
- Volunteer Squad shirt for the May 30th and 31st volunteers
- Black pants, black closed-toe shoes
- The June 16th volunteers will be asked to provide their shirt size for the OWA shirt. This is needed in advance of the event(s).
