April 21st, 2026
There has never been a better time to showcase
Canadian wines & ciders to Canadians!
We’re pleased to share that registration is now open for the National Wine Awards of Canada (NWAC) 2026, taking place June 12–18 in Niagara Falls.
This year continues the strong collaboration between WignAlign and Cider Canada, with expanded cider categories and ongoing efforts to ensure Canadian cider is recognized alongside wine on a national stage. Last year we saw 59 entries. We hope to expand this number by many more.
Anthony Gismondi and David Lawrason recently reflected on the awards’ impact:
“Last year, the National Wine Awards of Canada celebrated a quarter-century of our once-a-year ‘snapshot’ of Canadian wines and ciders. We are proud to have shone a light on the developing Canadian wine scene, especially in its formative years when it needed a voice to help tell its story.
From the beginning, the goal was to create a level playing field for all Canadian producers to compete against their peers from across the country… with a guarantee of fairness and objectivity.
At a time where our sovereignty is being challenged, the awards should have an extra meaning for all of us in Canada. Look for the results in mid-July.”
Important Dates
•Western (BC) shipping deadline: May 20, 2026
•Eastern (ON) shipping deadline: June 5, 2026
•Registration deadline: June 5, 2026
•Awards judging: June 12–18, 2026
Registration Fees
April: $160 per entry + HST
May: $165 per entry + HST
June: $170 per entry + HST
Early registration is encouraged to secure lower rates and ensure smooth logistics.
Why This Matters for Cider Producers
All entries—including cider—are:
•Added to the WineAlign database with professional imagery
•Reviewed by a national panel of judges
•Promoted through staged results releases in July
For medal winners, this provides:
•National visibility
•Third-party validation
•Content for marketing and export positioning
Reminder this provides automatic free entry into the Canadian Cider Awards (one submission, two awards!) for members of Cider Canada / Cidre Canada in good standing.
Category info here: https://www.winealign.com/awards/2026/03/25/nwac-rules-2026/#cider
We continue to view WineAlign as a key national platform to elevate Canadian cider alongside wine. Participation supports both individual brand recognition and broader industry visibility—especially as we continue to build export readiness and national awareness.
If you want more info, check it out here.
If you are considering entering and would like guidance on categories, positioning, or how this fits into your broader marketing/export strategy, feel free to reach out.
Barry Rooke, CAE
Executive Director
Cider Canada / Cidre Canada