The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ is toasting the standout producers honored in the 2026 Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition, where this year’s vintners delivered exceptional wines from across the globe. Thirteen top award winners were selected out of 3,127 entries from a record 25 countries by a panel of expert judges.
The coveted Grand Champion Best of Show goes to Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon, Tomahawk Vineyard, Stags Leap District, 2022; the Reserve Grand Champion Best of Show is awarded to Sequoia Grove Chardonnay, Napa Valley, 2023.
“The International Wine Competition underscores the depth and diversity of the agriculture industry,” said Chris Boleman, president and CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. “We’re honored to host one of the world’s largest wine competitions, where renowned judges and standout wineries convene to celebrate excellence in wine craftsmanship.”
This distinguished event draws top wine producers from around the world, making the selection process a true reflection of the exceptional quality of the wines showcased. The panel of 130 judges, consisting of industry experts and connoisseurs, meticulously evaluated a diverse selection of wines across multiple categories, including red, white, sparkling, and dessert. Each wine was carefully assessed based on factors such as aroma, taste, appearance, and overall balance.
Of the 3,127 entries, there were 1,051 brands entered in the competition from around the globe. The countries with the most entries were the United States, Italy, France and Argentina. Of the total, 567 entries came from Texas wineries, and 225 entries came from the 2026 featured region, Oregon.
The 2026 Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition Champions include:
- Grand Champion Best of Show: Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon, Tomahawk Vineyard, Stags Leap District, 2022
- Reserve Grand Champion Best of Show: Sequoia Grove Chardonnay, Napa Valley, 2023
- Top Texas Wine: Friday Mountain Frenchman’s Corner Mourvédre, Salt Lick Vineyard, Texas Hill Country, 2020
- Top Red Wine: Reynolds Family Winery Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2022
- Top White Wine: Carter Creek Plateau White, Texas High Plains, 2024
- Top Sparkling Wine: Perrier-Jouet Blanc de Blanc Champagne AOC, NV
- Top Dessert Wine: Blandy’s 10 Year Old Bual Madeira DOC, NV
- Top Region Wine: Zena Crown Vineyard The Sum Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills, 2021
- Top Value Wine: Bieler Pere et Fils La Jassine Red, Cote du Rhone Village AOC, 2024
- Top Wine Company: E & J Gallo Winery
- Top Region Wine Company: Ste. Michelle Wine Estates
- Top All-Around Winery: Nice Winery
- Top Texas Winery: Thirsty Mule Winery
These top winners will be showcased at the 2026 Rodeo Uncorked! Roundup & Best Bites Competition, presented by Nan & Company Properties, scheduled for Sunday, February 22, 2026, at NRG Center and will also be auctioned off, alongside over 450 other wines, at the Champion Wine Auction and Dinner, scheduled for Sunday, March 1, 2026. Additionally, select winners will be available for purchase at the Champion Wine Garden, presented by Frost, during the 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, scheduled for March 2-22, 2026.
For more information about the competition and upcoming events, click here.