International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) Results

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22 May 2026

The International Wine & Spirit Competition has released the results of its 2026 wine judging after two weeks of blind tastings involving more than 130 leading UK wine experts. Nearly 4,000 wines from 39 countries were judged, making it one of the competition’s broadest international editions yet.

France and Italy led overall medal counts, while Spain achieved the most gold medals with 21. China stood out as a rapidly improving wine-producing nation, earning seven golds alongside numerous silver and bronze medals. Strong regional performances came from South Australia, Marlborough, Veneto, Champagne and Rioja.

Fortified wines had an especially strong year, collecting more than 80 medals, including 17 golds. Madeira and Port were particularly successful. English sparkling wine also continued its rise, winning 65 medals including four golds.

The judging process remained highly selective and rigorous. Wines were tasted blind in small panels, with limits on the number assessed each day to reduce palate fatigue. Only 3% of entries achieved gold medals.

View the database of results

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