The Process
How to submit your wines into the Awards and important things to note
The Awards are more than just a competition
They are a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and integrity in the wine industry. Each entry is meticulously evaluated by a panel of 12 expert judges lead by Master of Wine Toni Paterson, ensuring that only the best wines receive the accolade they deserve.
This rigorous assessment process is underpinned by the world leading Drinkme Digital software suite – custom built to our rigorous specifications and centered around instant access to information. All of these components not only uphold the prestige of the awards but also guide consumers in discovering outstanding wines that stand a cut above the rest.
Stage 1 – Entries open
All eligible wineries are notified that entries are open. Subject to meeting entry criteria, wineries may submit entries via the Drinkme Digital portal.
Stage 2 – Submission
Entries are processed and confirmed digitally via Drinkme Digital. Dispatch instructions are emailed and freight labels are available from the Drinkme portal.
Stage 3 – Receipt
Entered wines are dispatched by the winery (3 units of each wine) and received into the Sydney Warehouse, checked and placed into classes.
Stage 4 – Entries Close
Deadline for entries into Sydney is Friday 1st November 2024. Please ensure you dispatch your entries well in advance of this deadline.
Stage 5 – Judging
Wines are judged by panels of experts in a blind tasting format over 3 days (13th – 15th November 2024). Results are recorded via our leading software and medals attributed.
Stage 6 – Results
Winners are announced on Friday 29th November 2024 via social channels and via the Drinkme Digital software which releases images, wine details and judges commentary directly to our website.
Scoring is standardised with Gold, Silver & Bronze medals being awarded. Gold medals are allocated to wines 95 points and above; Silver medals are 90 to 94 points; Bronze medals are 85 to 89 points. Our judging methodology, high caliber of judges, high standards and vast cumulative wine judging experience mean that wines have to really stand out to achieve recognition in the Awards.
“On average, only 6% of all wines entered into the Awards earn Gold medals & 15% earn Silver medals! There are no participation medals here – only the best wines shine through! A medal from the ANZ Boutique Wine Awards is a significant result to be celebrated.”
Ross Anderson – Owner & Director