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SOUTH COAST WINERY CAPTURES BEST OF SHOW, DOUBLE GOLD AT 2026 SAN DIEGO COUNTY FAIR WINE COMPETITION
Temecula Valley Wineries South Coast and Carter Estate Earn 19 Combined Awards
TEMECULA, CA – Temecula Valley wineries South Coast Winery and Carter Estate Winery garnered 19 awards at the 2026 San Diego County Fair Wine Competition, including Best of Show and a Double Gold medal for South Coast Winery’s 20 Year Tawny Port.
Judged April 8 and 9, the annual competition recognizes outstanding commercial wines from San Diego, Imperial and Riverside counties, celebrating craftsmanship and innovation across Southern California’s wine industry. Select medal-winning wines have the opportunity to be showcased and poured for guests during the San Diego County Fair’s popular Wine Experience Bar.
South Coast Winery’s acclaimed 20 Year Tawny Port stood out among this year’s entries for its exceptional depth and complexity. Aged for two decades in old French oak barrels, the mahogany-hued dessert wine offers layers of toasted hazelnut, clove and raisin alongside a velvety, smooth finish characteristic of premium tawny ports.
In addition to the Best of Show honor, South Coast Winery also earned the competition’s Toast of Riverside distinction for its Sparkling Pinot Grigio. Crafted in a Brut “Extra Dry” style, the sparkling wine features bright notes of pear and apple accented by tropical fruit nuances and crisp acidity. The grapes are hand-harvested from estate vineyards in Temecula Valley, where cool Pacific Ocean breezes help preserve freshness and balance in the fruit.
The combined 19 awards received by South Coast Winery and Carter Estate Winery further reinforce Temecula Valley’s growing reputation as one of California’s premier wine destinations, particularly for estate-grown varietals and méthode champenoise sparkling wines.
“We always appreciate the visibility and recognition this competition brings to the wines of Southern California and the Temecula Valley region,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality. “These honors are a testament to the talent, dedication and creativity of the winemaking teams at both South Coast and Carter Estate Winery.”
A complete list of winners is available through the San Diego County Fair Wine Competition results page.