DENVER, CO, 02/18/2025 – This month, Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) and The Tasting Alliance – the world’s largest and most prestigious awards organization – joined forces to bring an elevated, high-profile tasting competition to Access LIVE 2025 in Denver. Widely known as the industry’s premier showdown, this annual competition offers brands unparalleled exposure to top distributors nationwide—along with the ultimate bragging rights.
This year, the excitement kicked off early with a reengineered Wine & Spirits Tasting Competition, powered by The Tasting Alliance. Competing brands battled for the spotlight, earning exclusive recognition throughout Access LIVE, a coveted spot in the Best in Show Tasting at the heart of HQ Connect, and the chance to advance to the legendary 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. With over 80 wholesaler companies from across the country in attendance, this year’s competition set a new standard for industry excellence.
SEE COMPLETE LIST OF COMPETITION WINNERS
WSWA’s Wine & Spirits Tasting Competition at Access LIVE provides a launchpad for brands that are looking to stand out in the crowd,” said WSWA Chairwoman and President, Opici Family Distributing Dina Opici. “Distributors from across the country look to the results to fill holes in their portfolios and find brands that have what it takes to compete for shelf space in today’s dynamic marketplace.”
"We are thrilled to partner with WSWA at Access LIVE for this exciting new tasting competition,” said Amanda Blue of the Tasting Alliance. “This collaboration allows us to discover and celebrate exceptional new wine and spirits brands. Together, we aim to highlight innovative producers and provide them with the recognition they deserve.”
The competition results are making waves, with major media outlets like Forbes and international trade publications spotlighting standout brands. This heightened exposure extends far beyond distribution partners, giving competitors a powerful platform to reach consumers, retailers, and industry influencers on a global scale. By securing recognition in media, winning brands gain not only credibility but also a competitive edge in an increasingly crowded market. The buzz surrounding this year’s competition underscores its growing influence, solidifying its status as a must-enter event for emerging and established brands alike.
Explore Forbes coverage of the competition:
- The World’s Best Blanco Tequila, According To The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers Of America
- The Best White Wines, According to The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America
- The World’s Best Merlot, According to The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America
- The World’s Best Reposado Tequila, According to The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America
- The World’s Best Bourbon, According To The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America
- The World’s Best Rum, According To The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers Of America
- The World’s Best Extra Añejo Tequila, According To The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers Of America
- The World’s Best Red Wines, According To The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers Of America