The Columbus Food & Wine Affair Wine Competition has grown to be one of the largest in the Midwest and is one of only two in the country that requires specialized training of its judges. Competitors come from around the world to take part in this competition highly regarded by vintners and wine lovers alike.

More than 400 wines will compete in the 2008 competition to be held Saturday, August 9, 2008 at Marcella's on Polaris Parkway in Columbus.

Wines will be judged using a 20-point system. A panel of 45+ judges will weigh in on the look, taste, and texture of the wines. Judging will take approximately 3-1/2 hours, and those overseeing the event say the competition is objective standards not personal preference. Objective standards change and evolve over time, and this is covered in the training of the judges. Approximately 150 gold, silver and bronze medals will be awarded.  

All wines in the competition will be available to sample at the Grand Tasting set for 6:30 to 10 p.m., Friday, September 5 at the Franklin Park Conservatory. Since it began, the Columbus Food & Wine Affair Wine Competition has been led by Rob Somers, Ohio Manager, Limestone Estates Division, Fosters Wine Estates America’s. 

“….The event showcases quality, and in my role as co-chair of the CFWA wine competition, my goal is to enhance the event by encouraging wineries to present the best wines they have available. The competition offers wineries the opportunity to receive coveted bronze, silver, gold, and "best value" medals that will attract the attention of local consumers, retailers, and restaurateurs. A great community event, supporting local community charitable organizations, and a wine competition that is judged by a fantastic panel of community participant wine writers, retailers, restaurateurs, distributors, winery representatives, and community wine enthusiasts! “ 

Special thanks to Competition Co-Chairs Rob Somers, Fosters Wine Estates America's and Ryan Valentine, Cameron Mitchell Restaurants.

To our 45+ judges who gave their time and expertise to the 2007 competition include:

Our Competition Host - Columbus Fish Market, Olentangy River Road

Wine Distributors - Heidelberg Distributing, Glazer's Distributing, Wine Trends, Vintage Wine Distributor, WineWorks, Buckeye Distributing

Click here for a full listing of medallion recipients