Details outlined in our International Wine Competition Handbook

About

The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR) presents the Vine2Wine International Wine Competition. Aligned with the Show’s agricultural mission, we are excited to support the grape growing and wine making industries around the world, and of Texas. Highly credentialed wine professionals will judge both international and domestic wines.

Our panel of distinguished judges, comprised of experienced judges, recognized industry experts and renowned sommeliers, will meticulously evaluate some of the finest wines from across the globe. The competition is designed to attract all wineries interested in reaching the important Fort Worth, Texas wine market.

The competition will be led by Competition Coordinator and Head Judge, Stephanie Earthman Baird of Houston, TX. Baird has extensive experience coordinating and judging wine competitions, and has been instrumental in raising the wine profile at FWSSR through the development of the Vine2Wine program over the past seven years.

Competition Scope: INTERNATIONAL! Fine wines are made across the globe, from cool climates to warmer climates. We will judge wines from numerous countries to celebrate the diversity of grape varieties and terroirs, and educate our Show patrons on the scope of available wines. Traditional Competition awards will be presented to top winners.

Texas Twist: For our Texas Competition within the International Competition, prepare for an unparalleled celebration of Texas terroir. Top Texas Wine Awards will be presented by Texas AVA, including an award for the North Texas wine region.

Our Vine 2 Wine International Wine Competition will take place October 18-20, 2025, in Fort Worth, TX. The final deadline for entry is September 30, 2025.

Early Discount Entry Deadline: September 9, 2025

Regular Entry Deadline: September 30, 2025 (by midnight)

Wine Sample Delivery Deadline: October 3, 2025 (by 5 p.m.)

JUDGING: OCTOBER 18-20, 2025

• Be a part of the World's Original Indoor Rodeo. The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR) is the definitive, historical rodeo of Texas. First held in 1896, it’s the oldest continuously running livestock show and rodeo in Texas. FWSSR joins other Texas rodeos that celebrate viticulture and viniculture as an integral part of rodeo’s agricultural focus.
  
• Earn bragging rights. Competition judges will honor winning wines with Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. Top award winners will be recognized with custom belt buckles and a unique boot award.
  
• Reach a perfect audience. FWSSR is a trusted resource for the local community, with a wide sphere of influence. The local wine consumers are excited to support and follow a local wine competition that is part of their own community. Connect with and be discovered by our Show patrons and the important wine market in north Texas.
  
• Expand your wine sales .The Fort Worth, Texas metropolitan community is above average for being enthusiastic consumers of wine.
  
• Wow an esteemed judging panel .Experienced and credentialed judges representing the wine trade, winemakers, and media will judge the wines through a sound, double-blind tasting process following internationally recognized standards.
  
• Participate in Vine 2 Wine activities during the Show . Select winners will have the opportunity to participate in various Vine2Wine activities during the annual Show and other FWSSR events throughout the year.
  
• Leverage the Vine 2 Wine International Wine Competitions award to enhance brand building and marketing for placements in retail and restaurant settings in the Fort Worth, Texas metropolitan area. Leverage the awards to build your DTC business in the Fort Worth area.
  
• Support the youth of Texas and the Show’s charitable agricultural and education missions.
  
• Be featured on the Show’s website and social media postings.