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World-Class Wine Competition Expands Horizons: Texas International Wine Competition Welcomes Amateur Winemakers in Historic 8th Year

BUDA, TEXAS (January 27, 2025) – The Texas International Wine Competition (TXIWC) breaks new ground in 2025 by inviting amateur winemakers to compete alongside established vintners for top awards, marking a significant evolution for one of North America’s most dynamic wine competitions. The March event, set in historic downtown Buda, brings together an unprecedented panel of judges, including two Masters of Wine – Count John Umberto Salvi (Bordeaux) and Tim Hanni (Arizona) – alongside an elite roster of international wine professionals.

“Increasing our awards for amateur winemakers this year reflects our belief that great wine can come from anywhere” says Bonnie Villacampa, TXIWC founder/International Wine Judge

New for 2025: Recognizing Amateur Winemaking Excellence

The 2025 competition introduces new award categories, expanding opportunities for both commercial and amateur winemakers to gain recognition.

  • Best of Show Opportunities: Both commercial and amateur entries eligible for top honors
  • Amateur Division: Non-commercial wine enthusiasts can now compete alongside professional labels
  • Enhanced Categories: New awards including Best Amateur Fruit Wine and Most Creative Amateur Label

International Expertise Led by Distinguished Masters of Wine

The 2025 competition showcases an exceptional judging panel featuring two highly acclaimed Masters of Wine. Tim Hanni MW, recognized by the Wall Street Journal as “the wine anti-snob,” brings over 50 years of industry experience as one of America’s first Masters of Wine. Known for revolutionizing wine education and challenging industry conventions, Hanni’s expertise spans from professional chef to acclaimed author of “Why You Like the Wines You Like.”

Joining him is John Umberto Salvi MW, whose six-decade career in Bordeaux, including his influential work with Château Palmer, brings unparalleled Old-World expertise to the competition. Their participation, alongside a distinguished international panel representing seven countries, establishes TXIWC as a premier event in the global wine community.

Complementing these Masters are experts from across the global wine industry and more information can be found here: https://starofshow.com/judges/txiwc25

Why Enter TXIWC

  • Compete on a global stage – Wines from across the world will be blind-judged by an esteemed panel.
  • Minimal entry commitment – Commercial entrants need to submit only three bottles per wine; amateur entrants submit just one bottle (two recommended for Best of Show eligibility).
  • Low entry fees – $79 for commercial entries, $39 for amateur entries, with no additional commitment for top award winners.
  • Exclusive awards – Earn physical and digital medals, marketing collateral, and the opportunity for Best of Show trophies.

Entry Requirements

  • Commercial Wineries: Three bottles per wine entry
  • Amateur Entries: One bottle (two recommended for Best of Show eligibility)
  • Entry Fees: Starting at $39 for amateurs, $79 for commercial wineries

Key Dates

  • Entry Registration Deadline: February 16, 2025
  • Wine Sample Submission Deadline: February 23, 2025
  • Results Announcement: April 7, 2025 or earlier

Community Impact and Charitable Mission

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, TXIWC channels its success into supporting local charitable initiatives. The competition has become a cornerstone event for Buda, driving tourism and showcasing Central Texas’s emerging role in the international wine scene.

Registration Information

About Texas International Wine Competition

Established in 2016, TXIWC has evolved into one of North America’s most respected wine competitions, drawing entries from across the globe. The competition uniquely combines rigorous professional judging with community engagement, fostering excellence in winemaking while supporting local charitable causes.

Media Contact:
Norman Carr
[email protected]

 

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