Sponsored by Riedel Glassware and Bollinger, the annual competition aims at enhancing and recognising the calibre of local sommeliers and wine service staff.
Ginette de Fleuriot, marketing manager at Vinimark The Wine Company (importer of Champagne Bollinger) and organiser of the award anticipates more entries this year. "We look forward to an increased number of entrants and to wider representation from all of South Africa's premier tourist regions.
"This industry-wide initiative was established to advance the interests of all of the country's fine wine producers, as well as those who make their living from the sale of wine in hotels, restaurants and wine bars. The sponsors and organisers trust that this competition will continue to act as a catalyst for the hospitality industry to expand training facilities and support local sommeliers and sommeliers-in-training, in the interests of all those who enjoy dining out."
The winner of the competition will be announced in October 2014 and awarded the Riedel Glass Trophy and a trip to France, including a visit to the House of Champagne Bollinger.
For more information, go to www.wineserviceaward.co.za.