Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards were established in 1994 by Tucker Seabrook, Sydney’s first Wine and Spirit Merchant (established 1838).
The aim of the Awards is to recognise and reward the enormous investment by restaurant owners, managers and sommeliers in the time, skill and resources that go into developing the best quality wine lists. At the same time the Awards pay tribute to the dedication and talent of those who create these lists for Australia’s best restaurants, hotels, clubs, wine bars, pubs and cafes – large and small.
Still the most prestigious national awards in their field, they have played a major part in lifting the standard of Australia’s wine lists over the past three decades. Chairman of Judges for the first 11 years (1994 – 2004) Huon Hooke, commented on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the launch of the Awards. ‘Standards have improved out of sight since 1994 and each year the bar keeps rising.’
Importantly, the awards have also had an impact on the public’s interest in fine wine generally and have improved their appreciation of those establishments which have participated in the Awards over the years and been celebrated.
Leading magazine Gourmet Traveller WINE, has been the official Consumer Media Partner since 2008 alongside the Drinks Association, who joined as official Trade Communications Partner in 2016.
Peter Forrestal, currently enjoying his thirteenth year as Chairman of Judges and a member of the judging panel since 1994, endorses Huon’s comments and salutes the rise to prominence of Australia’s sommeliers over the past 20 years. ‘Not only does Australia now boast an abundance of sommeliers but those we have are as well educated and as experienced as those of any country in the world. They have been fortunate to have a vigorous and enthusiastic industry body in Sommeliers Australia and strong support from international organisations such as the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Wine & Spirit Education Trust.’
The awards:
- Give recognition for the resources, skill and investment that goes into creating and maintaining quality lists for Australia’s on-premise venues
- Promote the growth of premium beverage representation and consumption
- Inspire service professionals to continually improve their level of service and knowledge, creating a greater food and wine experience for the consumer
- Are influential in raising the public’s interest and appreciation of fine wine and beverage lists, promoting awareness of each year’s entrants and winners.
