Primarily, we are changing the judging dates to offer producers from the Southern Hemisphere greater opportunity to maximise the promotional impact of winning an IWC medal. A new judging schedule will give South African producers the possibility to enter the competition at the best time for their production and sales cycles. The IWC has already moved its main Awards ceremony to July to enable the Champions to be identified earlier in the year. Full details of the change of events will be first announced at this year's ceremony on July 18th. The IWC team will be giving a short presentation in each location to elaborate on this announcement as well as provide more information of how South African winemakers can use IWC medals and stickers to increase brand recognition and sales worldwide. Chris Ashton, Event Director and Ray O’Connor, Commercial Manager will be hosting at these venues starting at 16h00: 24 July Weltevrede Estate - Bonnievale 26 July Spier Wine Estate - Stellenbosch 29 July Quarters Hotel - No 5 Harbour Road - Hermanus Winemakers will also have an opportunity to taste IWC award-winning wines including International Trophies, Gold, Silver and Bronze medals to give an indication of the quality levels awarded. We will be sampling around 60-70 wines at each venue. Light snacks will also be provided. Places are limited to 100 people and we ask that it a maximum of 2 people per winery attend. To book your places please email marketing@internationalwinechallenge.com with the names you require to attend. If you have any questions please email our South African Ambassador Alan Bent on southafrica@internationalwinechallenge.com and he will be able to help you. Alan is based in Somerset West.