In 1995, the Ontario Wine Awards were founded by Tony Aspler, Order of Canada Recipient, as a means of recognizing Ontario VQA wines for their quality, distinction and brilliance. Tony is an international wine consultant and judge with extensive experience in Europe and the new world, and is recognized as one of the leading authorities on Canadian wines.
The Ontario Wine Awards recognize VQA varietal quality in 27 different categories and acknowledge winners in Bronze, Silver and Gold Medal levels. There are also distinctive awards given out honouring the Winemaker of the Year, White Wine of the Year, Red Wine of the Year, Sparkling Wine of the Year, Wine Journalism Award, and Best Label Design.
Today, the Ontario Wine Awards boasts the participation of some 80+ wineries and more than 500 of the best VQA wines that Ontario has to offer. The awards pay homage to the hundreds of small businesses, farmers, restaurateurs and thousands of employees who dedicate their livelihoods to a prosperous Ontario.
It is with the continued dedication and support of our corporate sponsors over the years that have helped bring the industry the regional, national and international attention it deserves and establishing Ontario VQA wines as some of the most sought after and respected in the industry.
Ontario Wine Week
Officially declared by the provincial government in June 2005, every third week in June has been proclaimed Ontario Wine Week. This act helps to solidify the recognition of wines produced in Ontario and further insures the continued success of the Ontario Wine Awards and surrounding events. For additional details, download the press release [PDF].