The 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ Rodeo Uncorked!® International Wine Competition once again proved that Texas wines are not only holding their own but excelling on the national stage. With more than 3,100 entries from across the globe, including more than 560 from Texas, the competition showcased the depth and diversity of winemaking in the Lone Star State. Among the standout winners were Carter Creek, Friday Mountain, Nice Winery, and Thirsty Mule Winery—each earning top honors that highlight the strength of Texas terroir and talent.
Carter Creek Plateau White stood out above the rest earning Top White Wine
The honor of Top White Wine went to Carter Creek’s 2024 Plateau White from the Texas High Plains. This crisp, estate-grown wine captured the judges’ attention, earning a Gold medal, Class Champion, and Texas Class Champion distinctions. Carter Creek has long been known for its dedication to crafting approachable yet sophisticated wines, and the Plateau White is no exception. With bright citrus notes and a clean finish, it embodies the High Plains’ unique climate and soil, which lend themselves to producing whites with remarkable freshness and balance. This award demonstrates that Texas wines are capable of excelling on the international stage and achieving top recognition.
Friday Mountain Frenchman’s Corner Mourvèdre named Top Texas Wine
The coveted Top Texas Wine award was bestowed upon Friday Mountain’s 2020 Frenchman’s Corner Mourvèdre, sourced from Salt Lick Vineyard in the Texas Hill Country. This bold red earned Double Gold, Class Champion, and Texas Class Champion honors, cementing its place as one of the finest wines produced in the state. Mourvèdre, a Mediterranean variety, thrives in the Hill Country’s limestone soils and warm climate, and Friday Mountain has mastered its expression. The wine impressed judges with its deep, earthy character, layered dark fruit, and spice. The Double Gold distinction—awarded only when all judges unanimously rate a wine Gold—speaks to its exceptional quality. Friday Mountain’s achievement highlights the growing reputation of Texas reds on the global stage.
Nice Winery Lone Star Noir – one of the Texas offerings from this year’s Top All-Around Winery
For the third consecutive year, Nice Winery earned the title of Top All-Around Winery. This time their Lone Star Noir, a non-vintage Texas red, garnered a Gold medal and Texas Class Champion honors. Located in Houston’s Spring Branch neighborhood, Nice Winery is unique as the only commercially operating vineyard within city limits. Co-owner and winemaker Ryan Levy, a Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholar no less, continues to champion Texas wines while also sourcing grapes from renowned regions abroad. The Lone Star Noir exemplifies Nice Winery’s philosophy of blending artistry with accessibility, offering a smooth, fruit-forward profile that resonates with both casual drinkers and connoisseurs. Their repeat win demonstrates consistency and innovation, hallmarks of a winery at the forefront of Texas winemaking.
One of the Double Gold winners from Top Texas Winery, the Thirsty Mule Winery Sweet Peach Sparkling
The title of Top Texas Winery, awarded to the Texas producer with the highest aggregate number of honors, went to first-time recipients Thirsty Mule Winery. Based in Liberty Hill, Thirsty Mule has steadily built a reputation for approachable wines and a welcoming tasting experience. Their success at the Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition reflects not only the quality of their portfolio but also their dedication to showcasing Texas-grown grapes. With a range of varietals that appeal to diverse palates, Thirsty Mule has become a favorite among both locals and visitors. This recognition cements their place as a leader in Texas winemaking and a testament to the strength of the state’s wine industry.
The Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition, now in its 23rd year, continues to serve as a platform for Texas wineries to shine alongside global peers. The awards for Carter Creek, Friday Mountain, Nice Winery, and Thirsty Mule underscore the diversity of Texas terroir—from the High Plains’ crisp whites to the Hill Country’s robust reds. These honors also highlight the dedication of winemakers who balance tradition with innovation, elevating Texas wines to new heights.
Wine lovers will have the chance to taste these award-winning bottles at the Rodeo Uncorked! Roundup & Best Bites Competition on February 22, 2026, at NRG Center. With tickets already sold out, the event promises an unforgettable evening celebrating the best of Texas and beyond. For more information, visit www.RodeoHouston.com/Wine, or visit Rodeo Uncorked! on Facebook.