How to Apply

• Pay the non-refundable entry fee of $195 (GST included) here. One application per venue, please.
• Email your current Wine List and Dinner Menu plus your wine philosophy in PDF format to the WPEA Awards Administrator. 

Application deadline: September 28, 2026 (late applications accepted until October 7, 2026 for a fee of $245) 

Building on its successful relaunch in 2026, the Wine Program Excellence Awards (WPEA) returns in 2027 to celebrate outstanding restaurant wine programs that reflect the innovation, diversity, and excellence of British Columbia and Alberta's vibrant wine and dining community.

The WPEA categories have been reimagined to celebrate the diversity, creativity, and culture of the restaurant community, to recognize industry leaders, and to inspire continuing excellence.

Presented Onstage at the VIWF’s Annual Awards Lunch 

• Best Wine Program in an Upscale Restaurant – an ideal union of fine wine & fine dining
• Best Wine Program in a Contemporary Restaurant – exciting wines in a relaxed atmosphere
• Best For a Glass – Celebrating venues that make it easy to stop in for a great glass of wine, no reservation or dining required
• Best Food & Wine Pairing – designing & serving exceptional wine & food matches
• Best Wine Service – recognizing exceptional wine service through knowledgeable, attentive, and engaging hospitality
• Wine Program Excellence of the Year – wine, food, setting, and service create the complete package

Announced at the Awards Lunch

These awards fall into three main groups:

 Recognizing Wine List Scope

• Best Micro Wine List – under 50 labels: rotating wines, chalkboard specials, and more
• Best Boutique Wine List – 50-100 wines that succinctly complement the venue’s vision
• Best Premier Wine List – 100-300 wines that show balance, breadth, and intention
• Best Grand Wine List – 300+ wines that complement the ultimate dining experience

 Recognizing Wine Program Focus

• Best BC Wine List – homegrown winners from both icons & emerging talent
• Best Italian Wine List – geographic and stylistic diversity from Italy
• Best French Wine List – classic and contemporary French wines
• Best Other Regional Wine List – great regional wine cultures beyond the usual canon
• Best Sake List – a thoughtfully curated selection that enhances the dining experience

 Recognizing Wine Lists & Programs with Other Noteworthy Qualities

• Best Designed Wine List – a distinctive piece of wine culture that’s perfectly curated
• Best Program for Discovery – uncommon varietals & regions that inspire exploration
• Best Wine Program in a Wine Bar, Lounge, or Alternative Venue – flexible and creative programs outside traditional dining venues
• Best Value Wine Program – outstanding quality at multiple price points

Applicants are automatically considered for all applicable award categories. Individual award categories are determined at the discretion of the Key Judges

Benefits:

All applicants will be judged by top Canadian wine professionals, and will receive feedback on their wine programs and will receive one ticket to each of the following events Friday, March 12 Trade Days events ($168 value based on 2026 ticket prices)

• Celebrating Excellence: 23rd Annual Awards Lunch - 1 ticket per application
• Trade Tasting (2 p.m.) - 1 ticket per application

Applicants who enter by 11:59 pm on Monday, August 31 will receive one additional Friday Trade Tasting ticket ($49 value), as well as the option to purchase one additional Awards Lunch ticket for $89 in December (regular price $119).

In December, you’ll receive a pre-buy ticket form enabling you to purchase additional Trade tickets. If you purchase any additional Awards Lunch tickets during this period, you’ll receive a complimentary Trade Tasting (2 p.m.) for each Awards Lunch ticket.

Winners Also Receive

• Verbal and onscreen recognition in front of 300 of your peers at the 23rd Annual Awards Lunch.
• An award plaque for Gold winners, suitable for display in your restaurant.
• A digital decal for use on your website.
• Online listing and hotlink at VanWineFest.ca, promoted throughout the year.
• Acknowledgement in WPEA media release, festival ads, e-newsletters, and social media campaign.
• Editorial recognition in Vancouver Magazine's 2027 Restaurant Awards issue

Restaurants must be open to the general public, and be geographically accessible, to be eligible for an award.