Judging
We provide an objective, independent and professional rating of South Africa’s fine wine lists. A clearly documented and transparent judging protocol gives all stakeholders the unambiguous and carefully thought through summary of how the scoring will work. Results and scores will be shared so that restaurants are fully informed and clear about their own results, both within the context of the protocol as well as from a competitive position.
Judging protocol
The methodology that we apply is based on research conducted in Europe and the USA. We studied carefully best practices from abroad. These were then remodelled in order to provide the cutting-edge template that we now implement in SA, knowing that our approach sets a new level of benchmark professionalism and global best practice for 2012.
Scoring methodology based on 100 points
This is a key aspect that underpins the objective and transparent approach.
- Presentation – physical, layout, description (8)
- Wine service; with additional points for qualified, or unqualified, sommelier (14)
- SA content - depth, breadth & balance (30)
- International content - depth, breadth & balance (12)
- Glassware, quality, range and setting (10)
- Food & wine pairing (5)
- Unusual sizes (12)
- BYO clarity (4)
- Cellaring and cellar conditions (5)
- Total Maximim(100)
- Bonus points potential (+20)
- Penalty points (-20)
- Notes: Errors besides spelling lose ½ point per item, no maximum
Judging process – Quality Awards
- Two panels will be in place and will be seated separately
- Judges are independent and answer to the Chair
- Wine lists are sighted; judges interests are pre recorded
- No judge with an establishment relationship, may judge that establishments wine list
- Panels will judge in separate rooms with no discussion allowed between panels
- Where panel judges agree the wine list score, Chairman will make ad hoc checks
- AAll contended wine lists will be assessed by panel plus Chairman
- If consensus not achieved then Chairman has the casting vote
- The overall results of all entered wine lists will influence directly the number of wine lists that are placed into each of the four winning categories.
Unique additional feature - judging for Good Value Awards
- Consumer support by showcasing wine lists that offer excellent value
- Professional judges will nominate wine lists for possible Value Awards
- A separate Consumer Panel of judges assesses these lists for possible nomination
- Overall value will be the key criteria – can consumers buy good or very good wines at attractive prices – by the glass, bottle or even by the magnum
- These awards can be earned in addition to Quality status awards
