The Inspire+ NZ Artisan Awards finalists have been patiently waiting in suspense for the announcement of the category winners and of course the Supreme Winner for 2021.
With a record-breaking level of support of the awards with 957 entries across the eight categories, the judges' decision has been made. With delays due to COVID-19 lockdowns and the staggering number of entries, the judges worked solidly to evaluate the exceptional lineup of brands.
Competition was very high, and with the addition of a new Sauce category opening up this year thanks to our Sauce category sponsor, Wendy's New Zealand, the judges had a big task ahead of them.
"This competition continues to support New Zealand artisanal producers. There is no charge for entry, and the prize packages are all geared around supporting the winning brands in the next step on their journey," said head judge and SupermarketNews publisher Tania Walters.
"This is now the largest competition of its type in New Zealand.
"We appreciate the support of Wendy's New Zealand, which allowed the addition of the new Sauce category that highlights the huge number of sauces produced in New Zealand," she said.
After a lengthy judging process, analysing degree of innovation, fit for purpose claims, visual appeal, price point, packaging, shelf-life and of course taste, the big reveal has arrived for the category winners and the supreme winner. All entrants should be proud of their efforts in bringing the best in food and beverage innovation to New Zealand consumers.
The judges felt that some products were so close to winning that they deserved a special mention; these finalists have been awarded a "highly commended".
The 2021 Inspire+ NZ Artisan Awards Category Winners are...
CATEGORY WINNERS
- Ambient: Yum
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Six Barrel Soda
- Alcoholic Beverages: Zeffer
- Sauces: Pepper & Me
- Chilled/Deli: Plan*t
- General Merchandise: Essentially Tamara
- Frozen: House Of Dumplings
- Fresh: Olliff Farm
The 2021 Inspire+NZ Artisan Awards Supreme Winner is...
Congratulations to all of the 2021 Category Winners, and special congratulations go to Vicky Ha, House of Dumplings. To be a category winner two years in a row is an achievement in itself, but to then take out the Supreme prize this year is a commendable achievement.
"Vicky continues to innovate, and year on year, the products rise to meet very high standards in flavour, quality ingredients, taste and texture. The outstanding packaging and commitment to the category are clear in every variant that Vicky brings to market. The judges were unanimous in selecting the House of Dumplings as the Supreme Award winner for 2021," said Walters.
The 2021 Inspire+ NZ Artisan Awards Finalists Awarded Highly Commended are...
HIGHLY COMMENDED FINALISTS
- Ambient: Dr Bugs Popcorn, LIT! Cotton Candy and Queen Anne Chocolates
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Quarterpast, E'stel Orchard Gate & Weirdly Normal
- Alcoholic Beverages: Buzz Club, Clean Collective & Kombucha Bros
- Sauces: Taste of the Alps & Wise Boys
- Chilled/Deli: Dolly Mumma & Cookie Dough Collective
- General Merchandise: Honeywrap
- Frozen: Kohu Road & Nice Blocks
- Fresh: Mirella's Pasta
"A huge thank you to our sponsors and judges for their contribution to another successful year of celebrating local in such a challenging year," Walters concluded.
Even though the Artisan Awards are over for another year, it doesn't mean we don't stay connected.
Join our new Facebook Group for New Zealand Artisan Food and Beverage Producers to connect, network, and share stories with like-minded people.
Follow us on Instagram to be up to date with all things NZ Artisan Awards.
Sign up to our newsletter to get insights and stay updated with the New Zealand Artisan food and beverage industry!
