Meet Stefan Neumann MS, our new judge in Star Wine List of the Year
We are excited to celebrate the top wine lists in South Africa, once again, in February 2025. With the deadline for entries fast approaching, let us introduce you to the competition’s judges.
Editor's note: This event has been cancelled and we welcome South African entries to our International Open this year
The jury panel features three highly regarded sommeliers based in South Africa and beyond, including local expert Tawanda Marume (Best Sommelier of Zimbabwe, 2019), Salvatore Castano (ASI Best Sommelier of Europe & Africa, 2021) and a new member of our judging team, Stefan Neumann MS.
Austrian Master Sommelier Stefan lives in the UK, where he has looked after the wine lists at some of the most revered restaurants including Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, The Fat Duck and Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons. An experienced judge, Stefan has contributed to competitions such as the Decanter World Wine Awards and the International Wine and Spirits Competition, and now runs his own wine and hospitality consultancy. Get to know Stefan as he joins our wine list awards…
Welcome! Why are you a fan of Star Wine List?
“Oh dear, too many reasons! I reckon the fact that Star Wine List is found in so many countries, and being judged by sommeliers and thoroughbred wine professionals makes it pretty special in my book. It's an excellent travel companion and truly helps if you are new to a country and find yourself asking the important question: where can I drink a good glass of wine?”
You're no stranger to judging wine competitions, but Star Wine List of the Year is slightly different – what are you looking forward to in your role?
“I am always inspired by browsing through wine lists. It may be a quote, a specific wine or just simply seeing the love and passion the sommelier has put into it.”
Do you have a particular judging style?
“Good question, I don't think so. I like to stay as open-minded as I can and put myself in other people's shoes. Staying focused and 100% professional is important for me. So much work goes into producing one good glass of wine, let alone creating a wine program. You truly have to be mindful not to judge too quickly.”
What will you be looking for in the submitted wine lists?
“I like to imagine the following:
• If I were a guest in this restaurant, what would I drink?
• Is this list diverse enough to have a date night, seal a business deal or just hang out with my non-wine friends?
• Does it offer value, excitement and maybe most importantly tell me a story?
• Once I reach the last page, I ask myself the question, do I want to read it again, or was it just a one-hit wonder?”
What is your experience of the South African food and wine scene?
“I visited South Africa a few years ago and dined out a bit based on recommendations from my fellow hospitality and wine professionals, plus I have frequent talks with some South African wine producers I know well. It's quite the transformation over the last years/decade. Can't wait to see the first lists!”
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