Fourth Hawke’s Bay Wine Awards a sell out event

Friday 15 October 2004

Fourth Hawke’s Bay Wine Awards a sell out event

All 350 tickets for the cocktail function at the fourth annual Hawke’s Bay A&P Mercedes-Benz Wine Awards have sold out in advance of the event being held next Tuesday (19 October).

Wine Awards event manager Annabel Tapley-Smith says organisers are absolutely thrilled with the response, with people eager to support the local wine industry by attending the event.

“Now in its fourth year, the awards are gaining a reputation within the wine industry as well as with the wine-loving public. It is a night to celebrate the industry and try the gold medal and trophy winning wines, as well as kicking off the festivities at the Hawke’s Bay Show.”

The event will be MCed by well known New Zealander John Hawkesby, with food by Orton Catering and entertainment from local bands Black Snapper and Twin City Stompers.

Entries to the awards have already closed, with record numbers received, and judging of the nearly 300 wines took place last week at the Eastern Institute of Technology’s state-of-the-art sensory lab. All entries had to use at least 85 percent Hawke’s Bay fruit.

The show boasts 11 categories covering varietals, and a further five awards, including cellar door personality and the main award, top wine and winemaker of the show - with a lifetimes use of the commissioned trophy piece by artist David Trubridge sponsored by event sponsors Wellington Star Mercedes-Benz & the Hawke’s Bay A & P Society. There’s also an award for best student wine that’s open to anyone studying around the country.

The full results list will be available on the night, and will also be posted on the awards website the following day on www.hawkesbaywineawards.co.nz

ENDS

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