California Stars 2025/26 Applications Are Open!
Do you have a wine list that deserves stardom? Applications for the 2025/26 California Stars programme, in partnership with Star Wine List, are officially open.
(Editors note: Sponsored article by California Wines)
Instagram @californiawineseurope and @starwinelist
Background & Context
California launched this initiative in Europe following the success of its Wine Weeks, aiming to highlight wine lists with outstanding Californian selections. What sets California Stars apart from other wine list awards is its focus not just on the number of wines, but on how well those selections represent California’s diversity, quality, and innovation. Restaurants get ranked with one, two, or three stars depending on how exceptional their offerings are. Learn more about the criteria on the Star Wine List website.
Quotes
Ebbe Langhoff Gøgsig and Søren Appel Hansen of Restaurant Tiende / Den Fede Drue, with Rienne Bilz from Louis M. Martini and Star Wine List's Liora Levi, Krister Bengtsson and Kathrine Larsen-Robert MS. Photo by Thomas Sjørup.
“Being a California Star has given us greater visibility, a stronger network, and a more focused approach to our wine list and guest experience. We truly appreciate being part of this community!”
- Visselulles Vinbar – Sønderborg
“Being awarded Best California Wine List in Denmark 2024 is a testament to our commitment to showcasing exceptional Californian wines. It reinforces our dedication to offering a diverse and high-quality wine selection to our guests.”
- Restaurant Tiende / Den Fede Drue – Aarhus
Concrete Examples
Restaurant Tiende / Den Fede Drue in Aarhus, Denmark, won the “Best California Wine List” Gold Star; their list impressed by combining vintages, grape variety, and producers that span the breadth of California’s wineries.
Geranium, Copenhagen, is another standout. Known for long wine lists, Geranium’s California selections are praised for balance and representation, from classics to emerging labels.
Instagram @californiawineseurope and @starwinelist
Trends & Education
Sommeliers in Europe are increasingly choosing California wines that balance tradition and innovation, from classic reds and crisp whites to older vintages. There’s also growing interest in lesser-known grape varieties and sustainable California producers, following the global trend for authentic, terroir-driven wines.
Professional Relevance
Being awarded a California Star can significantly raise a venue’s visibility, both among guests and wine professionals. Your staff gets access to a free Capstone California certification, which is not only a professional boost but also a strong selling point. Certification shows your dedication and knowledge, helping customers trust you and making your venue stand out.
What’s Included
California Stars awarded venues are listed on the Star Wine List website, and featured via California Wines Europe and Star Wine List social media, along with custom digital guides showing the destinations.
Ambassadors visit awarded venues, increasing visibility among 25,000+ food and wine lovers, boosted with additional advertising.
Our #CaliforniaStars campaigns have already achieved over 7 million impressions.
Ready to Apply?
Register today: https://starwinelist.com/california-star/register
Note: Restaurants applying for influencer promotion will need to cover the cost of a meal for two.
