Home Past Judgements Judgement 2021
The fifth Judgement of Kingston took place virtually on Sunday, November 7, 2021. Continuing a proud tradition established in 2016, this event brought together an audience of wine lovers, sommeliers, and experts who tasted blind to compare Prince Edward County wines against those from other prominent regions. Despite the remote format, participants were fully engaged, enjoying the experience from home while sharing their impressions through the virtual platform.
This year’s focus was on Pinot Noir — a varietal for which the County is earning a national reputation. The 2021 Judgement demonstrated that local vintners continue to raise the bar, crafting wines with remarkable character, elegance, and balance. A record number of wineries participated, and the results further cemented Prince Edward County as a key player in Canada’s premium wine landscape.
County wines once again achieved remarkable success, with several top-tier Pinot Noirs earning exceptional scores from the judging panel. The expert tasters praised the precision, structure, and terroir-driven expression of the County’s entries. These results underscore the growing influence and maturity of the region’s winemaking industry.
The virtual event format introduced in 2020 due to the pandemic continued to prove effective, enabling a broader audience to participate and experience the Judgement of Kingston’s unique atmosphere. Commentators noted that the 2021 competition maintained its signature professionalism and educational value, highlighting both the artistry and community spirit that make this annual celebration so distinctive.
The judges noted that the 2021 tasting featured an impressive diversity of Pinot Noir styles. From elegant, fruit-forward wines with bright cherry and raspberry notes to more structured, earthy examples evoking subtle spice and minerality, the flight demonstrated both the versatility of the grape and the precision of modern County winemaking.
Each entry was scored on a 100-point scale, following international judging standards. Panelists commended the balance, texture, and clarity of the top-scoring wines, observing that Prince Edward County continues to establish itself among the leading cool-climate wine regions in North America.
The 2021 Judgement of Kingston garnered media attention from local outlets, including CKWS Television and regional publications that highlighted the event’s innovative virtual format and the continued rise of Prince Edward County wineries. Organizers and participants shared interviews emphasizing how the Judgement of Kingston has become a hallmark of the community’s dedication to fine wine and local excellence.