Word from the show organiser, the South African National Wine Show Association (SANWSA), is that the categories for Shiraz and Chenin Blanc have attracted the highest number of entries (178 each) this year, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon (153) and Sauvignon Blanc (147).
Specialist panels consisting of seven qualified wine judges in each of the classes will put the youngsters through their paces. As in previous years, the inclusion of an eight trainee judge on each panel will give upcoming wine tasters the chance to hone their evaluation skills during this marathon tasting session. The junior judges’ scores are not added to the final tally.
Entrants compete for SA Champion trophies in 17 classes. White wine classes include Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Sémillon, Other White Cultivars, Dry White Blends, Off-dry White Wines and Noble Late Harvest. In the classes for red wines the battle will be on for trophies for the best Pinotage, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Other Red Cultivars and Dry Red Blends. Judges will also be looking for the most outstanding Port, Dessert Wine and Muscadel.
Only one of the more than 2 100 wines will be heralded as the overall South African champion young wine and presented with the General Smuts trophy, the competition’s highest acclaim. The coveted Pietman Hugo trophy for the cellar with the highest marks for entries in five categories is also at stake.
The winners will be revealed at the 2015 SA Young Wine Awards Gala Dinner hosted by the Oranje Vaal Wine Region at the Augrabies Falls, near Upington, on 21 August.
For further information visit www.youngwineshow.co.za or send an email admin@veritas.co.za.
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