Benefits of Participating
Promoting the small wine producers of Australia & New Zealand
The Awards are more than just a competition
They are a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and integrity in the wine industry. Each entry is meticulously evaluated by a panel of 12 expert judges lead by Master of Wine Toni Paterson, ensuring that only the best wines receive the accolade they deserve.
This rigorous assessment process is underpinned by the world leading Drinkme Digital software suite – custom built to our rigorous specifications and centered around instant access to information. All of these components not only uphold the prestige of the awards but also guide consumers in discovering outstanding wines that stand a cut above the rest.
World Class Judges
The Awards are proud to have a family of high profile leading winemakers, wine writers and wine judges in the ranks. Carefully steered since inception in 1996 through to 2022 by Huon Hooke, the awards are now overseen by the incredible Master of Wine Toni Paterson, and supported by 12 of the industries finest palates. View our panel of judges here
29 years of experience
The Australian & New Zealand Boutique Wine Show, now in its 29th year continues to go from strength to strength. We were the 1st and remain one of the only wine shows dedicated to supporting the small winemakers of Australia & New Zealand.
Rigorous judging process
Every wine entered is judged blind. We currently run 4 panels with 3 judges per panel. Wines are ranked by judges within panels and then put forward to other panel chairs and show Chairperson. The process is rigorous & thorough, with each wine passing through a number of palates for evaluation.
Our large & ever increasing team of Judges ensures efficient and effective management of palate fatigue, thereby giving each wine judged a chance to shine.
“The importance of the Boutique Wine Show is significant. This is the only wine show that truly showcases the small winemakers, the true innovators and cutting edge of the domestic wine industries of Australia & New Zealand!”
Huon Hooke
Chairperson 1996 – 2022
The voice of the small winemakers
We level the playing field against the major producers. Underpinned by a combination of leading wine critics, winemakers and Masters of wine together with world-class software – we are the voice of the small winemakers!
Constantly evolving and expanding
We keep an eye on trends, then monitor and adjust classes to accommodate the ever-increasing range of varieties being planted in Australia & New Zealand.
Open to producers crushing under 250 tonne
The awards draw entries from new, emerging & premium producers and regions. Our 29 years have firmly entrenched the reputation of these awards, our standards and the value in being awarded or recognised.
“Since its inception in 1996, the Boutique Wine Show has been a champion of small producers. To win a gold medal, or a trophy, is an extremely hard task. Silver medal-winning wines are fabulous examples of their type; Bronze medal wines are delicious wines of character with quality well above the baseline.
In a crowded wine market, we hope the awards provide helpful direction to consumers about labels that have a quality above and beyond others in their category.”
Toni Paterson MW
Chairperson
Domestic marketplace recognition
Our medals have long established significance in the marketplace and consumers are increasingly relating to points and medals in their buying decisions. The ANZ Boutique Wine awards results are a trusted guide and tool for wine drinking and buying patterns.
Wine people doing wine things
Our back of house team are often composed of industry trained Sommeliers, assistant Winemakers, on-premise & off-premise Managers & WSET students who understand the importance of accuracy and professionalism in handling your wines.
World class software powers this show
The Australian & New Zealand Boutique Wine Show & Design Awards are powered by the Drinkme.Digital software platform. This custom built wine & spirits software has been designed around all aspects of wine judging, and tested in both the domestic competition as well as the Global Fine Wine Challenge over the past 4 years by some of the worlds leading wine critics.
“The development of our world-class bespoke software platform, Drinkme Digital was not only essential for our future growth plans; it drives domestic and international awareness of the boutique wineries and brands that participate in the awards. Boutique wineries mean business!”
Ross Anderson
Director of the Australian and New Zealand Boutique Wine Awards
Full access to judging feedback
What does this mean for you? Accuracy, detailed reporting, capture of judging comments, access to scores and more, all through a dedicated online login for each winery participating. Digital downloads of medals and logos for self promotion.
Promotion and exposure on our website powered by Drinkme Digital
We have recently launched a consumer facing portal which pulls all the judging commentary and medal results from the Drinkme Digital platform and displays this information into a consumer facing resource/reference, and buying guide. Make sure your account information and imagery is spot on!