About Us
The Orange County Wine Society, a non-profit organization that promotes the knowledge and appreciation of wines, is dedicated to raising funds for college scholarships for institutions throughout California. The volunteers of the organization, while enjoying social events, wine tastings and trips throughout the year, is best known for coordinating the OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition and running the wine courtyard at the fair each year. Within the OCWS lies an active home winemaking group which, along with their passion for making fine wines, runs the Homewine Competition which is also highlighted annually at the OC Fair.
The varied interests and social opportunities offered through the OCWS has something for everyone, from people just beginning to find enjoyment with wine in their lives and wanting to learn more to the well versed fine wine lover looking to share their passion with others of like mind.
Current News
Competitive Spirits
Who could have imagined that a small band of 16 like-minded, wine-loving people getting together 48 years ago could grow the largest competition of California-only wines in the world? From […]
President’s Message
This month I am reminded about how much we have to celebrate as an organization. With over 1,000 members, we are one of the largest groups of wine enthusiasts in […]
Chef of the Evening
Based on his last name, you can tell Chris Ouellette is French. This recipe comes from a long line of Ouellettes back in New Hampshire and even Quebec (yes, the […]
OCWS Scholarship Program: Spotlight: Napa Valley College
OCWS funds scholarships for eight California colleges and universities including Napa Valley College. Napa Valley College has two locations, one in Napa and a second upper campus in St. Helena. As […]
When and Where Did it all Begin?
Before Thomas Jefferson planted 24 European varietals at Monticello in 1807; before the first American commercial winery was founded by John Dufour in Kentucky in 1799; and before the American […]
All Lots Sold at this Year’s Event
Once again, I have had the honor of leading an amazing team of volunteers who put together another fun and profitable Wine Auction. The event was a HUGE success this […]
Volunteers Needed for Annual Event
We are headed toward the 48th Commercial Competition June 1-2 and signups are ready now. Boy this year has gone by fast! We understand that these are changing times and […]
Join The 2024 OC Fair Courtyard Set Up Crew
Every year, one of the BEST locations to meet and greet at the OC Fair is at The Courtyard, an attractive place to enjoy award-winning wines while generating the largest […]
