Two weeks left - Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards
| Two weeks left - Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards | |
| 28 August 2006 There are only two weeks left before entries close for this year's Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards. Organisers of the awards have urged companies to get their entries in before the 11th September deadline. With ten different categories ranging from Food and the Environment to Innovation, there are opportunities for all businesses involved in the food and drink industry to get involved. Elgin based distillers, Gordon and Macphail have entered their recently launched organic single malt whisky in this year's prestigious Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards. The Benromach Organic Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the first bottled single malt whisky released to be fully certified organic by the Soil Association. The malt is hand-made by just two men at Speyside's smallest working distillery in Forres and was launched onto the market in June 2006. Already the firm has sold over 60 per cent of its non-export consignment of the Benromach Organic within the UK and they are projecting that it will account for 10 per cent of sales of the Benromach brand in 2006. Benromach's own tasting notes for the new whisky describe it as "sweet, charred oak aromas with fresh fruit notes (bananas and pineapples). An earthy, toasted aroma also present. The palate exposes sweet, vanilla and toffee flavours." Speaking about their entry in this year's Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards, David Urquhart, UK Sales Director, commented: "Having only just launched the first ever organic malt whisky, the Benromach Organic Speyside malt whisky - we felt it appropriate to enter it in the New Product category of this year's Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Awards. The awards are an ideal opportunity for food and drinks companies throughout the region to showcase our products to a wider audience. Benromach Organic is already generating a lot of interest and these awards will further promote the wide range of fantastic food and drink products that are available here in the Highlands and Islands." There are ten different categories in the awards and only two weeks to go until entries close on 11th September. Shona MacLennan, awards co-ordinator urged companies to get their entries in now, saying: "We¹re really hoping to encourage companies of all sizes to enter this year's awards. It's a chance to promote products to a wider audience throughout Scotland and celebrate the diverse range of locally produced food and drink." The winners will be announced at the awards dinner on 5th October in the Drumossie Hotel, Inverness. Entry forms and further details from: Shona MacLennan CategoriesNew Product Award Recently launched food and drink products from the Highlands and Islands, which demonstrate both initial market success and ongoing potential. The product may be available locally, nationally or internationally. New Business Award - sponsored by Aquascot Limited Award for a new business, started since 1st July 2005 that has, through its success, made a significant contribution to the Highlands and Islands food and drink economy. It may be a producer of a new or innovative product, a retailer or food service outlet displaying excellence in the use of local food and drink products, or a service provider contributing significantly to the success of the sector. Innovation Award Recognition of the business that has displayed outstanding innovation in product or service development. This award is offered to those who can demonstrate they have driven either their own business, or those of the Highlands and Islands food and drink sector forward by being truly creative. Health Enhancement Award - sponsored by FINDS This category recognises food and drink based businesses, products or services designed to address food and drink related health concerns. Food and Environment Award - sponsored by TIO Ltd Recognition of food and drink based products; services of ways of doing business that protect or enhance the environment of the Highlands and Islands. This category recognises good environmental practice in the production and/or distribution of food and drink products. Export Award - sponsored by J & D Cowper Exporting is a hugely important factor in the Highlands and Islands food and drink economy. The award recognises the food or drink producer demonstrating outstanding success in entering a new export market since 1st July 2005. Food Tourism Award - sponsored by John M Munro Award for the Highlands and Islands-based business or organisation which, through its use of Highlands and Islands produce, has demonstrably enhanced the visitor experience and enhanced the food tourism profile of the Highlands & Islands since 1st July 2005. Marketing Award - sponsored by Falls of Shin Visitor Centre Award for developing and running the most effective marketing campaign since 1st July 2005. Individual Award - sponsored by Baxters Food Group New Award Category for 2006 - Nominations are invited for the individual who has made the biggest individual contribution to the food and drink sector. Excellence Award - sponsored by Williamson Foodservices Winner chosen from all entries
For further information on the awards and details of how to enter contact: Shona MacLennan | |