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In 2026, the Wine Program Excellence Awards (WPEA) returns with a new vision, new awards, and new ways to recognize excellence in the restaurant community.
For many years, the WPEA have been the gold standard for restaurant wine programs in British Columbia and Alberta, but now the program has been updated to reflect the vibrancy of our local wine and food scene.
The WPEA categories have been reimagined to celebrate the diversity, creativity, and culture of the restaurant community, to recognize industry leaders, and to inspire continuing excellence.
Six of the awards will be presented onstage at the festival’s annual Awards Lunch, while the remaining awards will be announced at the event.
Presented Onstage at the VIWF’s Annual Awards Lunch
- Best Wine Program in an Upscale Restaurant – an ideal union of fine wine & fine dining
- Best Wine Program in a Casual Restaurant – exciting wines in a relaxed atmosphere
- Best By-The-Glass List – variety and value that make great menu pairings
- Best Food & Wine Pairing Experience – designing & serving exceptional wine & food matches
- Wine Room of the Year – wine, food, setting, and service create the complete package
- Wine Community Champion (chosen by entrants) – an individual, venue, or program that uplifts the wine community through mentorship, diversity, and generosity of spirit
Announced at the Awards Lunch
These awards fall into three main groups:
Recognizing Wine List Scope
- Best Micro Wine List – under 50 labels: rotating wines, chalkboard specials, and more
- Best Small Wine List – 50-100 wines that succinctly complement the venue’s vision
- Best Medium Wine List – 100-300 wines that show balance, breadth, and intention
- Best Grand Wine List – 300+ wines that complement the ultimate dining experience
Recognizing Wine Program Focus
- Best BC Wine Program – homegrown winners from both icons & emerging talent
- Best Italian Wine Program – geographic and stylistic diversity from Italy
- Best French Wine Program – classic and contemporary French wines
- Best Other Regional Wine Program – great regional wine cultures beyond the usual canon
Recognizing Wine Lists & Programs with Other Noteworthy Qualities
- Best Designed Wine List – a distinctive piece of wine culture that’s perfectly curated
- Best Wine Program for Discovery – uncommon varietals & regions that inspire exploration
- Best Wine Program in a Wine Bar, Lounge, or Alternative Venue – flexible and creative programs outside traditional dining venues
- Best Value Wine Program – outstanding quality at multiple price points
Restauranteurs/wine directors will have the opportunity to select which awards they wish to be judged on.
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