1 Jul 2004 :

This year, the SA international wine competition, the Michelangelo International Wine Awards, includes a 'garagiste' category for 'hobbyist' winemakers. That is, for winemakers who make less than 9000 bottles of wine a year or, literally, garage producers.

Good Taste magazine is sponsoring a trophy, known as the "Good Taste Garagiste Trophy" for these small-time hopefuls who, with recognition, may one day become top producers. Good Taste is the official magazine of the Wine-of-the-Month Club and the in-flight magazine of Nationwide Airlines.

The Michelangelo International Wine Awards enters its eighth year this year. Entries to the competition have grown at an average of more than 20% annually since its inception. This year more than 1200 entries are expected. Judging takes place on 9-13 August and the wines will be assessed by a combined international/local panel.