NEW ZEALAND’S FIRST CERTIFIED CICERONE TO JUDGE NZ FOOD AWARDS

The New Zealand Food Awards 2017 has announced that Josh Scott, New Zealand’s first certified Cicerone (beer expert), has joined the technical judging panel to judge the craft beer group within the Countdown Alcoholic Beverage Category.

Scott, the founder of Moa Brewing Company, joins a well-regarded judging panel including Bite magazine’s Ray McVinnie, chef Geoff Scott and World Kitchen television host and chef Nici Wickes. His appointment is an acknowledgement of New Zealand’s love affair with craft beers and its growing global reputation as home of world-class brewers.

Mr Scott said he was honoured to have been invited to be part of the food awards judging panel. “While we’ve had a challenging season in terms of hop production, the craft beer culture is thriving in New Zealand,” he said. “I’d like us to reach a point where our reputation for producing top-notch, real beers is up there with our reputation for world-class wines. This is a great opportunity for brewers to put their hat in the ring and see how their beers stack up against other beverages.”

For the past 30 years the awards have enabled food and beverage operators to boost the profile of their business and brand, grow sales and achieve national and international

They are open to small and large food and beverage manufacturers, primary food producers, food service providers and ingredient supply companies.

This year’s winners are eligible for prize packs including; business support, product promotion, product development and consultancy with partners.

For more information, please visit www.foodawards.co.nz.