The NSW Sommelier’s Wine List Awards has opened submissions for its 2021 competition, this year with a broader gamut for entry.
Unlike previous years, where entry categories were reserved for specific hospitality venues, the present competition will welcome submissions from any NSW venue that has a wine list.
The aim of the competition this year is aimed at showcasing and rewarding the very best ‘NSW Wine Stars’. The judges will specifically be looking for sommeliers and food venues that offer customers the opportunity to experience the quality and diversity of wines being produced in NSW.
“We have just this week received the latest wine list research, which shows that wines made in NSW hold only 11% of listings within restaurants and bars in NSW. This shows there is still plenty of opportunity for growth and it is critical for the sustainable future of all our industries that we support and work with each other,” says NSW Wine Industry Association President Mark Bourne.
“We are very proud of the exceptional wine experiences offered at our cellar doors, and these awards look to celebrate when these are complemented by sommeliers and expanded into memorable dining experiences.”
The winners of the 2021 NSW Sommelier’s Wine List Awards will be announced at a prestigious event at Government House Sydney on 24 May, hosted by Governor of New South Wales Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC.
The judging panel this year will comprise of Dane Richards, GM and Head of Reviewing Australia for Gault&Millau; former sommelier and Master of Wine Ned Goodwin, who was a dux of the Len Evans Tutorial and Japan’s first Master of Wine; and Mark Baulderstone, MD of Riedel Spiegelau Nachtmann Australia.
Winners will have automatic entry into Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards and be given the opportunity to travel to some of the best wine regions in NSW, among other prizes.
Submissions to the 2021 NSW Sommelier’s Wine List Awards close 11 April.