Update (10.12.2020): Application deadline extended to 18 December 2020.
Nominations are open for the Australian Organic Wine Awards 2020, after a three-year hiatus the coveted competition has returned to showcase the nation’s best organic drops.
Josh Martin, who is among the judging panel, was thrilled to announce the grand return of the contest.
“For producers, this is a unique opportunity to benchmark their wines against the very best of their organic winemaking peers,” Mr Martin said.
“This is also a fantastic chance for wineries to showcase their talents and raise the profile of their emerging drops, or garner recognition for their much-loved and established favourites.”
Nominations close on the Friday 11 December, with judging held in January 2021 at Brisbane’s iconic City Winery. Entrants must be certified organic, from any Australian certifying body, and have products commercially available.
The winners will receive a Cullen Wines trophy, case of Cullen wines, Riedel decanter and a special feature article in Gourmet Traveller WINE.
Mr Martin, who is a judge on Australia’s Wine List of The Year, has a particular penchant for the organic wine industry. He’ll be joined on competition day with fellow judges, Ramon Arnavas (Chair), Ken Gargett and Alex McPherson.
“We have a great panel of experienced show judges, Len Evans scholars and decades of industry experience,” Mr Martin said.
“I can speak on behalf of everyone when I say we are anticipating the opportunity to judge every single wine and are looking forward to the wide array of styles and varietals.
“It’s our ambition for the Australian Organic Wine Awards to become a legacy event as this is the only opportunity for winemakers to compete in a tailored and bespoke event focusing purely on organic drops. Any varietals can be entered from Pet-Nat, to whites to reds and dessert wines, and they can be from any vintage.”
Mr Martin said there was a sense of celebration as the competition neared, the Awards were a chance for producers to rejoice in their efforts and show pride in their best wines.
“I believe organic producers pour more love and care into each bottle, they have to work harder, which is underwritten through their philosophy of organic farming,” he said.
Australian Organic Limited Chief Executive Officer Niki Ford said the peak industry body was delighted to be hosting the Australian Organic Wine Awards 2020.
“This year has been tough for winemakers, and this event is a fantastic way to raise the profile of quality organic wine and boost the industry,” Ms Ford said.
“For a relatively small percentage of production, organic wines make up 12 per cent of all exports, as these premium wines are highly sought after around the world.
“I wish all organic winemakers the best of luck and look forward to announcing the winners next year.”
For more information on how to enter, visit the Australian Organic website.
