Candia Cellars Wins Gold Medal (91 Points) at the 2026 Orange County Commercial Wine Competition
A Benchmark Achievement for the 2025 Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc
Candia Cellars proudly celebrates a major milestone—its 2025 Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc has been awarded a Gold Medal with an exceptional score of 91 points at the prestigious Orange County Commercial Wine Competition 2026.
This recognition places Candia Cellars among top-performing wineries, showcasing excellence in craftsmanship and global competitiveness.
About the Orange County Commercial Wine Competition
The Orange County Commercial Wine Competition, held annually in Orange County, California, is one of the most respected wine competitions in the United States. It is part of the broader Orange County Fair & Event Center’s wine program.
Key Highlights of the Competition:
Location: Orange County, California, USA
Established Platform: A long-standing event celebrating commercial wineries
Judging Method: Blind tasting by expert panels
Judges Include: Certified sommeliers, winemakers, wine buyers, and industry professionals
Global Participation: Wines submitted from across the U.S. and international markets
The competition is known for its strict judging criteria, ensuring that awards truly reflect quality and excellence.
What Does a Gold Medal (91 Points) Mean?
Winning a Gold Medal with 91 points is a significant accomplishment in the wine industry.
Scoring Insight:
90–95 Points: Gold Medal (Outstanding Quality)
85–89 Points: Silver Medal
80–84 Points: Bronze Medal
A 91-point score indicates that the wine demonstrates:
Exceptional balance and structure
Refined aroma and flavor complexity
High technical precision in winemaking
Strong appeal to both experts and consumers
In simple terms, this places Candia Cellars’ wine in the top tier of internationally judged wines.
The Award-Winning Wine
2025 Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Chalk Hill, Sonoma County
Alcohol: 14.1% ABV
This wine stands out due to its barrel fermentation process, which enhances:
Rich texture and mouthfeel
Subtle oak influences like vanilla and spice
Greater depth and complexity
Smooth and elegant finish
The result is a Sauvignon Blanc that goes beyond the ordinary—delivering a refined, premium tasting experience.
Why This Win Matters
This award is more than just a medal—it represents:
Recognition from a highly respected U.S. wine competition
Validation of Candia Cellars’ winemaking expertise
Increased trust among wine enthusiasts, distributors, and retailers
A strong position in the premium wine market
A Proud Moment for Candia Cellars
Earning a Gold Medal with 91 points at the 2026 Orange County Commercial Wine Competition reinforces Candia Cellars’ commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality.
This achievement marks a defining moment in the brand’s journey and sets the stage for continued excellence in future vintages.
Experience Award-Winning Excellence
Discover the craftsmanship behind Candia Cellars’ award-winning wine and experience what sets it apart on the global stage.
