Entries for the Diners Club 2014 Winelist Awards have officially opened and licensed restaurants throughout South Africa have until Friday 29 August to participate.

For over two decades the awards have celebrated the art of food and wine pairing by acknowledging those establishments throughout the country that offer diners the perfect glass of wine to accompany their meal.

Commenting on the success and popularity of the competition, Ebrahim Matthews, Managing Director of Diners Club South Africa, says the awards have become a benchmark for excellence in the restaurant industry.

“Diners Club has a long history of supporting the wine industry. Diners Club members are renowned for their excellent taste in good food and wine, and the awards acknowledge those restaurants that offer a wine list that is original and complements the menu.”

Wine lists will be judged according to four criteria: content (35%), balance (25%), suitability (15%) and presentation (25%).

Content includes the number of wines on the list, number of wines served by the glass, original and innovative choices, and cultivars sourced from appropriate regions.

Balance relates to the relationship between modestly and expensively priced wines, overall value, presence of local and imported varieties, and balance between established and new labels.

Suitability measures the suitability of the wine list with the cuisine, as well as the fit with the image of the restaurant.

Presentation is judged according to vintages, regions, accurate information, correct spelling and a clear design that is easy to read and navigate.

Once again, awards will be presented in Diamond, Platinum, Gold and Silver categories. Diamond awards are presented to those who achieve over 91%; Platinum awards are for those achieving between 81% and 90%; Gold awards represent a score of between 71% and 80%, and Silver awards are for those who score between 60% and 70%.

The judging panel, chaired by esteemed wine critic and author Dave Hughes, will be announced later this month and the winners will be announced in October. Entry forms are available at www.dinersclub.co.za.