South Africa’s largest and most established wine institution,
the South African National Wine Show Association (SANWSA) has announced a
venture which aims to enhance the art and importance of high quality wine
journalism. The new Young Wine Writers Competition invites wine writers between
the ages of 18 and 35 to enter an article and blog post in order to be eligible
for the first prize of R15 000 or second prize of R7 500.
“Media and the technology related to its generation and
distribution are constantly evolving. The wine industry must keep up with this
tempo, ensuring that we continue to meet the needs of readers and consumers,”
says Charles Hopkins, Chairman of SANWSA. “Whether we are in the business of making, retailing,
writing about or even ‘branding’ wine – we ought to share one main objective:
to encourage readers and consumers to enjoy great and well-made wines, visit
the places where they originate and continue to be inspired by this creative
spirit.”
The competition encourages the next generation of writers to
hone their knowledge and understanding of wine and the industry, and particular
their wine writing skills, in order to expand the responsible enjoyment of wine and to keep the well
informed dialogue about wine in South Africa dynamic.
Interested parties must submit an 800 word article in any of
South Africa’s 11 official languages on one of the following subjects
- the role of wine in everyday life, OR
- describe the difference between wines to be
enjoyed as 'quaffers' and wines that do justice to certain cuisine
A blog post of 300 words about the most unusual wine the writer
has ever tasted must also accompany the entry.
Entries will be judged
by a panel of experienced and recognised South African wine writers. No persons
in full-time employment as wine writers are permitted to enter. Entries must be
accompanied by a short CV with specific details of previous wine writing
activities. The closing date for
entries is Friday 20 September 2013 and the winners will be announced on Wednesday
30 October 2013. An entry form and full
details are available from the Veritas office on admin@veritas.co.za or tel 021 863 1599.
