Thursday, 16 April, 2020
Michelangelo International Wine and Spirits Awards
Michelangelo founder, Lorraine Immelman, has confirmed that 16 international judges from five continents have accepted invitations to judge in South Africa in August. She says, “we will be going ahead with the preparation and planning for the 2020 Awards as usual. However, the situation will be reassessed on a regular basis, with the safety of each stakeholder as the highest priority.”
What began as a comprehensive ban from the government on all wine-industry related activities shifted first to a concession to continue winemaking and harvesting activities and later to the ability for producers to export their products internationally. These gains are the direct result of tireless efforts by the Exporters Task Team and other industry lobbyists like Vinpro and WOSA. The Michelangelo International Wine & Spirit Awards recognises and applauds these organisations.
In terms of this year’s Awards, the Michelangelo team would like to reassure all producers that they will do everything in their power to ensure the continuation of its 23-year tradition of adjudicating their wine and spirit entries. Adding to the anticipation of 2020’s forthcoming Awards, is the news that this year’s wine grape crop is expected to yield exceptional wines. This is linked directly to the effects of shifting weather conditions on the growing and ripening periods of berries in certain regions, which have resulted in smaller berries with greater flavour and colour concentrations. This is evidence of the adaptability of wine, and, with any luck, the adaptability of the wine industry, as we work to navigate this period of uncertainty.
Please keep an eye on all Michelangelo International Wine & Spirit Awards Facebook and Twitter pages and the www.michelangeloawards.com website for the latest updates regarding the status of the Awards.