First South African Bar and Beverage Awards to recognise the best in local

Nominations have opened for the first South African Bar and Beverage Awards 2023, which recognises the country’s finest cocktail bars, most talented mixologists and the best local beverage producers.

The 32-strong judging panel includes top leaders of the industry, headed by Cape Town-based spirits and cocktail writer Leah van Deventer. The panel is also a 50/50 gender split, and several stages of judging will be included to ensure transparency and professionalism, according to Bizcommunity.

‘I’m delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate on an awards programme that prioritizes an ethical approach at every step, and proud of the comprehensive nomination-and-judging system we’ve designed,’ says Van Deventer. ‘Not only have we thoroughly vetted our judges, but we’ll screen each nomination to ensure they comply with our well thought out category outlines. Additionally, judges will be recused where they have a conflict of interest. I’ve always been an advocate for homegrown talent, and the B&B Awards offer the local industry a chance to recognize, celebrate and uplift their own.’

The categories have been designed to acknowledge talent, creativity and excellence within the bar and beverage industry, spanning from bartenders and bar owners to brands, ambassadors and hospitality professionals who have impacted the South African bar and beverage sector.

The inaugural event will be split into two primary categories: the bar section and the beverage section. For the bar category, both the industry and the public are welcome to place nominations for sub-categories such as the best cocktail bar or the best bartender. For beverages, entries for the best new local liqueur or spirit aperitif can be submitted. All qualified submissions will be judged.

The award ceremony will be held later this year.

For more information, or to place a nomination, visit barandbeverageawards.co.za

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Written by Ilze-Mari Van Zyl for Cape {town} Etc.

Feature image: Pexels