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2026 Stewards of Virginia Wine Awards: A Celebration of Local Excellence

The recently concluded 2026 Stewards of Virginia Wine Awards shed light on the continuous efforts made by local businesses to reinforce Virginia's reputation as a premier wine region. With a diverse selection of culinary establishments, retail outlets, and wine bars, these awards acknowledge those who actively advocate for and promote the exquisite wines produced within the state.

A Record Year of Nominations

This year marked a significant milestone for the awards, as the number of nominations doubled compared to the inaugural event. A total of 26 businesses were honored for their commitment to sharing Virginia's viticultural offerings. Notably, several of the recipients are located outside the commonwealth, underlining the widespread support for Virginia wines beyond regional borders.

Honorees Making a Difference

The recipients of the 2026 Stewards of Virginia Wine include notable establishments such as:

• - 1799 at The Clifton
• - Duner's
• - Arrowine
• - Field & Main Restaurant
• - Vinícola Wine Bar & Bottle Shop

Among these, a select few were awarded the coveted Judges' Award, recognizing them for achieving the highest scores in their endeavors to promote Virginia wines. These recipients include significant players like The Market at Grelen, Hilton Norfolk The Main, and Wegmans Food Markets. Their innovative approaches in offering varied Virginia wine selections and educational events have significantly contributed to local wine promotion.

The Impact of the Awards

Desiree Harrison-Brown from the Virginia Wine Board Marketing Office expresses pride in the program's growth and the deep connection formed between local businesses and Virginia wines. "The response to this year's program shows how deeply restaurants, retailers, and hospitality leaders believe in Virginia wines, both throughout the Commonwealth and beyond state lines," she stated. This affirmation reflects a robust commitment to showcasing the rich heritage of Virginia’s wines and the stories behind them.

Selecting the Honorees: A Rigorous Process

The selection process involved nominations from a variety of stakeholders, including wineries, distributors, consumers, and trade partners. Each nominee was asked to submit an application detailing their support for and promotion of Virginia wines. A panel of experts assessed these applications based on five key evaluation criteria: wine list presence, consumer promotion, creativity, staff education, and overall commitment to promoting Virginia wines. An additional focus on community impact and advocacy provided an avenue for honorees to showcase their broader influence.

A Toast to Virginia Wine

The 2026 Stewards of Virginia Wine Awards serve as a reminder of the importance of community in uplifting local businesses and celebrating the uniqueness of Virginia's wine culture. With over 300 wineries actively contributing to Virginia's landscape, these awards play a crucial role in promoting an industry that is continually evolving and gaining recognition on a national scale. As October approaches, signaling Virginia Wine Month, the excitement surrounding upcoming events, tastings, and harvest festivities promises to further galvanize Virginia’s wine community.

In conclusion, the winners of the Stewards of Virginia Wine Awards stand as testaments to the power of collaboration and community spirit, essential tools in the ongoing journey to elevate Virginia's wine industry toward global prominence.