It’s always lovely when a local producer or restaurant wins a much deserved award recognising all their hard work. When one of our Sussex wins an award it’s particularly sweet; there’s nothing like being able to say “award-winning Sussex food and drink”. But what do all these accolades actually mean? Permit us to lift the label on our members’ success.
Sussex Food and Drink Awards
Now in its eighth year, this award is the only one to celebrate all the wonderful producers, farmers and businesses that Sussex has to offer. The awards night is noted for its seven course banquet using all-local ingredients.
Just some of our Local Food Sussex winners: Veasey and Sons fishmongers, High Weald dairy.
Great Taste Awards
These awards are organised by the Guild of Fine Food and is considered the Oscars of the food industry. Awarding one, two and three stars, Great Taste is judged extremely rigorously. An award-winning product will have been evaluated by at least 16 panellists. A three start product will have been by as many as 40 experts.
Just some of our Local Food Sussex winners: The Real Pie Company, Raw chocolate co, The Condiment Company.
AA Rosette Award
Unusually, Rosettes are awarded by a single inspector. Whilst these accolades are given out under the auspices of the AA, they are not to be sniffed at; only 10% of British restaurants are worthy of one Rosette and above.
Just some of our Local Food Sussex winners: The George Inn.
Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence
This award is truly the people’s choice. Recipients of the certificate will have received consistently exceptional reviews from the website’s members.
Just some of our Local Food Sussex winners: The Royal Oak Country Pub and Pantry, Bolney Wine Estate.
National Fruit Show
2013 saw the 80th anniversary of the show. The award panel judge everything from the best walnut to the heaviest pear. The competition is extremely exacting for apple growers; there are 26 categories!
Just some of our Local Food Sussex winners: Wobblegate.
The South of England Show
Overseen by the South of England Agricultural Society, the South of England show and its accolades highlight the best of British agriculture, equestrianism, food, horticulture and much more.
Just some of our Local Food Sussex winners: Wobblegate.
Quality Food Awards
These awards are known for being incredibly difficult to obtain. The 100-strong panel, drawn from every area of the food industry, judge products against ten different criteria, including innovation and packaging. The awards pit supermarket food and drinks against their artisanal counterparts. Founder of Local Food Sussex Tracy Carroll will be part of the judging panel at the 2014 awards.
Just some of our Local Food Sussex winners: Gran Stead's Ginger Co (finalist).
Tags: food and drink
awards
