1. To qualify for entry in the 2011 Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition, a wine must have been produced for commercial sale. Homemade wines will not be accepted for judging.

2. Each wine's category will be determined by information on the label.

3. The decision of the judges is final.

4. The Director reserves the right to create new categories if the number of entries warrant.

5. Six (6) 750ml bottles or the equivalent comprise an entry. Exceptions to the six-bottle rule include spirits such as brandy or grappa (3 bottles) or wines presented in alternative packaging. Please contact competition coordinator Felicia Forbes for guidance on alternatively packaged wines.

6. Entries must be received by July 12, 2011 to qualify for the Early Bird entry fee of $75. For entries submitted after July 12, the fee is $85. Entry fees are non-refundable.

7. All wines entered must be received by August 9, 2011 -- Deadline Extended to August 23

8. Make checks payable to Sommelier Challenge. We also accept Visa, Master Card and American Express.  Credit card charges will appear on your statement as Wine Cellar Productions.  

Foreign Wines

The Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition accepts entries from commercial wineries worldwide. It is best for foreign wineries to use their own importer or agent to clear their wines through U.S. Customs. A winery without representation in the United States may still enter using the Sommelier Challenge's import agent.   They will need winery name, wine name, grape varieties and alcohol content on each wine for the forms it submits to the TTB for the approvals that are required to clear U.S. Customs. A fee of $75 will be charged for clearing up to three entries through Customs. The fee for more than three entries is $150. All import fees are due in advance along with the entry fees. Information about the wines to be cleared should be faxed to 619-294-4878 or emailed to Director Robert Whitley at whitleyonwine@yahoo.com prior to shipping the wine.

It is the responsibility of the winery or entrant to ship wines with sufficient time to clear customs and arrive at the competiiton site in time to be processed and ready for the competition, as well as to provide all information completely and accurately.   Contact Robert Whitley before shipping the wine to assure that all necessary information is received to process the COLA waiver and that you are shipping the wine by a carrier who will facilitate the process.