The second annual FM Wine Business Awards revealed an astonishing depth in the wider South African wine industry. The award celebrates the exceptional performance of the category winners in terms of best business practice, innovation and leadership. A panel of independent international and local industry experts in finance, retail, marketing and advertising, brand building, packaging and design as well as logistics and distribution reviewed the entries.

The award for the Young Achiever went to the Elmari Swart for her work in Cheviot Publishing! The judges found that not only are the wine related books published by Cheviot based on in-depth research, but also provided unique insights into the subject matter. The judges noted the innovative campaign of Wine Pockets to make a tangible impact on consumers' understanding of terroir. In addition, the branching into custom-publishing and multi-media clinched the award for Cheviot. Described by the judges as "the perfect candidate for the award, Elmari is indeed the rising star with ambition, drive and demonstrable achievements under her belt that this category embodies".

Awards convenors John Woodward (Frogitt & Vonkel Private Wine Merchants & founder of the Jo'burg Wine Show) and Delarey Brugman (philanthropist, entrepreneur, wine industry investor & owner of Alluvia Wine Estate) were unanimous about achieving their goal. "The rationale behind the awards was to shift the industry's focus to the contributions of the role players throughout the value chain" mentions Woodward.

According to convener Delarey Brugman, the award sets the benchmark for the young and ambitious in the industry. "Our industry has many performers. The industry leaders of our country's most powerful ambassador – our wines – are aptly rewarded through these awards. Not only have global leaders in their respective industries committed their time to the adjudication of these awards, but partnerships such as the one we have with Financial Mail are paramount" says Brugman. Supported by South Africa's leading business publication, the Financial Mail, participants and award-winners will enjoy the recognition of a dedicated Financial Mail Special Report supplement on the Awards.

Elmari Swart wins the FM Young Achievers Award