Recognizing 26 Businesses Championing Local Wine Across the Commonwealth
RICHMOND, Va., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Virginia Wine extends well beyond the vineyard. The Stewards of Virginia Wine Awards recognize restaurants, wine bars, retailers and other businesses that actively support Virginia Wine through their wine selections, educational efforts, events and promotions.
Now in its second year, the program received twice as many nominations as its inaugural year, with 26 businesses recognized for sharing and promoting Virginia Wine. The honorees once again include businesses outside Virginia, reflecting support for the state’s wines beyond its borders.
Through wine lists that reflect Virginia’s diversity, by-the-glass offerings, staff education, and creative programming, these businesses introduce more people to wines grown and made in Virginia.
2026 Stewards of Virginia Wine Recipients
*Judges’ Award – Honoring the top five nominees who achieved the highest scores for excellence in promoting Virginia Wine.
“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” said Desiree Harrison-Brown of the Virginia Wine Board Marketing Office. “These Stewards are some of the most important voices for Virginia Wine. They introduce guests to producers and regions and keep local stories front and center. We are grateful for their commitment and excited to celebrate with them.”
The Selection Process
The Stewards of Virginia Wine Awards welcomed nominations from wineries, distributors, consumers and trade partners. Eligible nominees completed an application detailing their support and promotion of Virginia Wines, which was reviewed by an industry panel using a standardized rubric. Applications were evaluated across five areas: wine list presence, consumer promotion, creativity, staff education and overall commitment to Virginia Wine.
An optional bonus point recognized exceptional community impact or advocacy. Honorees were selected for the ways they champion Virginia Wines and help strengthen their presence across hospitality and retail.
About the Stewards of Virginia Wine Awards
The Stewards of Virginia Wine Awards honor restaurants, wine bars, and retailers that demonstrate exceptional dedication to Virginia-grown wines. The program celebrates the creativity, leadership, and community spirit that help strengthen Virginia’s place among the country’s leading wine regions.
About Virginia Wine
Home to more than 300 wineries, Virginia is one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing wine regions in the country. The Virginia Wine Board Marketing Office promotes the development, growth, and awareness of Virginia’s wine industry through education, marketing, and collaborative programs that highlight the quality and diversity of Virginia Wines.
SOURCE Virginia Wine
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