The New York Wine Classic

The New York Wine Classic was created and is annually hosted by The New York Wine & Grape Foundation. Open to all New York State wineries, categories include vinifera wines like Riesling and Cabernet Franc, and hybrid wines like Traminette and Maréchal Foch. The contest also includes categories for wines made from labrusca grapes, other fruits, and honey.

All wines entered are scored and may be awarded a medal. Awards are given for “Best of Class” for styles with at least seven wines entered. “Best of Category” awards are given for the highest scoring red, white, pink, sparkling, and dessert wine. The Governor’s Cup, a large silver chalice, recognizes the “Best of Show” or top prize in the New York Wine Classic. The “Winery of the Year” award is presented to the winery with the best overall showing based on the level and number of awards in relation to entries.

Submissions for the 2024 New York Wine Classic are currently open until March 31st with wine samples due no later than April 15th.

Governor’s Cup

Paumanok Vineyards
2019 Late Harvest, Sauvignon Blanc

Congratulations to the winners of the 2023 New York Wine Classic!

Winery of the Year

Paumanok Vineyards
Aquebogue, NY
(North Fork of Long Island)

How Wines Are Evaluated

Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) is honored to conduct the New York Wine Classic at the request of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF). BTI will organize and execute professional BTI wine tasting panels at BTI’s Chicago sensory lab.

Their industry-leading wine evaluation methodology was co-developed with Cornell University in 1981. Today, BTI has augmented that methodology by collecting more data points on custom software in a state-of-the-art sensory laboratory. The room is specially designed to minimize external factors and maximize the panelists’ concentration. These are just some of the ways BTI ensures the fairest, most consistent reviews. Learn More >>>