Registrations are now open for the New Zealand Sommelier of the Year Awards 2018.
Taking place at the NZ School of Food & Wine on Sunday August 19, the competition features both the Sommelier of the Year Award and the Junior Sommelier of the Year.
This year, judges include Celia Hay, Cameron Douglas MS and visiting judge, Master Sommelier from the US, now based in Australia, Jonathan Ross MS.
New Zealand Sommelier of the Year
This award recognises excellence in New Zealand and international wine knowledge for outstanding candidates working as a sommelier or senior manager in a hotel, lodge or restaurant. We encourage entries from candidates who can demonstrate excellent wine service and communication skills along with an in depth knowledge of wines from around the world.
The winner receives:
*A place representing NZ at the ‘One Belt One Road’ Sommelier Summit in China, Sept 2018
*All flights and accommodation included
*10 Day programme exploring China’s leading wine region
*A Magnum of Louis Roederer champagne
Junior Sommelier of the Year
This award recognises excellence in New Zealand wine knowledge for outstanding candidates working in any hospitality business. We encourage entries from candidates who wish to develop their wine skills and progress to more senior positions in their chosen field. Candidates must be under 30 years old.
The winner receives:
*Return flights to Queenstown
*2 nights’ accommodation at Misha’s Vineyard and the Rees Hotel Queenstown
*an exclusive helicopter tour of the winegrowing regions of Central Otago
*tasting sessions with winemakers to assist in gaining an in-depth understanding of Central Otago sub-regions and varieties.
To register, visit event.foodandwine.co.nz.
