Best Young Wine Writer Sought

Thursday, 11 October, 2018
Veritas Awards
Entries are now open for the 2018 Veritas Young Wine Writers Competition. This contest, presented by the South African National Wine Show Association (SANWSA), aims to identify exciting new voices in the wine industry. It also presents an opportunity for the wine industry to engage with the next generation of wine writers and enthusiasts on various topical issues related to wine.

According to SANWSA chairperson Christo Pienaar, the ever changing digital era has created a multitude of platforms for sharing information. “As one of the stakeholders in the wine industry, we have a responsibility to ensure that as a collective we are part of the discussion surrounding South African wine, and that we help to cultivate a culture of wine interest and knowledge among wine consumers. We believe that this competition will create a new avenue for writers and bloggers to express themselves and thereby inspire others to join in the exciting field of sharing views on all wine-related matters.”

The competition is open to all South African citizens or residents aged 18 - 35 years. No full-time or established wine writers in this age group are permitted to enter; nor previous winners of this competition. 

Participants are requested to submit two entries: one article of 700 words, and one blog post of 300 words:

  • The article must be written on the following subject: The SA wine industry has over the past few years emphasised the importance of building strong South African brands to strengthen Brand SA internationally. Share your insights from brands that have done it right.
  • The blog must deal with: The best way to spend a fruitful day in the Winelands – my suggestions for tourists on how to plan an itinerary.

The entries will be judged by a panel of experienced and distinguished South African wine writers.

Guidelines to consider are:

  • Content – reflect accuracy, readability, information transfer, education and a degree of entertainment value.
  • Accuracy – strict attention should be given to spelling and grammar.
  • Reasoning – prove the ability to present a premise and conclusion or convincing argument.
  • Communication and narrative – reflect a good ‘story-telling’ ability while sharing information with readers.

The winner will receive a cash prize of R15 000 and the runner-up R7 500. Entries may be submitted in any of the 11 official South African languages. All participants are to present this in MS Word format to: admin@veritas.co.za along with a completed entry form and short CV, stating specific details of possible previous wine-writing activities.

The competition closes on Friday 09 November 2018 at 18:00. Requests for entry forms or any enquiries can be directed to the SANWSA at the above e-mail address.

For more information, contact the Veritas office at tel 021 863 1599, e-mail info@veritas.co.za or visit www.veritas.co.za.

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