This year, the Aurora International Taste Challenge will be held in South Africa and will have some of the top food professionals judging products from around the world.
The goal is to identify and award the best-tasting products available to consumers.
What are the advantages of being awarded?
SET YOUR QUALITY PRODUCT APART
FROM THE SEA OF OTHERS,
TO SHOW THAT QUALITY,
NOT JUST YOUR MARKETING BUDGET,
STILL COUNTS FOR A LOT.
There are approximately 93 categories, based on those set by the American Distilling Institute.
Entries will be reclassified as necessary, so there should be no fear that a category will not be judged within the correct context.
| Spirit Class | Spirit Category | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| Agave | 100% Agave Tequila | As defined in the NOM 006 Mexican Standards |
| Agave | Agave Spirit | Any distilled spirit produced from a fermented mash of agave pinas and/or syrups, distilled less than 95% ABV and bottled at not less than 40% ABV. |
| Agave | Mezcal Ancestral | As defined in the NOM 70 Mexican Standards |
| Agave | Mezcal Artisanal | As defined in the NOM 70 Mexican Standards |
| Agave | Bacanora | As defined in the NOM 168 Mexican Standards |
| Agave | Flavored Agave Spirit | Any distilled spirit produced from a fermented mash of agave pinas and/or syrups, distilled less than 95% ABV, flavored through distillation, maceration, or other flavoring methods, and may be bottled at less than 40% ABV. |
| Agave | Flavored Bacanora | As defined in the NOM 168 Mexican Standards |
| Agave | Mezcal | As defined in the NOM 70 Mexican Standards |
| Agave | Raicilla | As defined in the Denomination of Origin |
| Agave | Tequila | As defined in the NOM 006 Mexican Standards |
| Brandy | Aged Fruit Brandy (Other than grape or apple) | A brandy distilled to not more than 85% ABV from the fermented juice or mash of whole, sound, ripe other fruit or other fruit wine, with or without the addition of not more than 20 percent by weight of the pomace of such juice or wine, or 30 percent by volume of the lees of such wine, or both, aged in oak barrels, and bottled at not less than 40%ABV. |
| Brandy | Aged Grape Brandy | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Brandy | Apple Brandy | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Brandy | Applejack | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Brandy | Armagnac | As defined By French Law |
| Brandy | Blended Applejack | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Brandy | Calvados | As defined By French Law |
| Brandy | Cognac | As defined By French Law |
| Brandy | Eau de Vie Other Fruit | An unaged brandy distilled to not more than 85% ABV from the fermented juice or mash of whole, sound, ripe other fruit or other fruit wine, with or without the addition of not more than 20 percent by weight of the pomace of such juice or wine, or 30 percent by volume of the lees of such wine, or both, and bottled at not less than 40%ABV. |
| Brandy | Grappa/Pomace/Marc Brandy | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Brandy | Neautral Brandy | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Brandy | Pear Eau de Vie | An unaged brandy distilled to not more than 85% ABV from the fermented juice or mash of whole, sound, ripe pears or pear wine, with or without the addition of not more than 20 percent by weight of the pomace of such juice or wine, or 30 percent by volume of the lees of such wine, or both, and bottled at not less than 40%ABV. |
| Brandy | Pisco Chileno | As defined by Chilean Law |
| Brandy | Pisco Perú | As defined by Peruvian Law |
| Brandy | Unaged Grape Brandy | An unaged brandy distilled to not more than 85% ABV from the fermented juice or mash of whole, sound, ripe grapes or grape wine, with or without the addition of not more than 20 percent by weight of the pomace of such juice or wine, or 30 percent by volume of the lees of such wine, or both, and bottled at not less than 40%ABV. |
| Gin | Aged Gin | Any gin rested/matured in new or used wood barrels. |
| Gin | Classic Gin | Gin that derives its primary flavor from juniper, often described as London Dry. |
| Gin | Compound Gin | Gin made from the blending of single botanical distillates including the distillate of juniper, or neautral spirit flavored with extracts. |
| Gin | Contemporary Gin (includes New Western and American Dry) | Gin that includes juniper but derives its primary flavors from other botanicals. |
| Gin | Cordial Gin | Also know as Gin Liqueur defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Gin | Flavored Gin | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Gin | Genever Style Gin | A gin distilled from a grain base that may be blended with neautral spirit and may be rested in wood barrels. |
| Gin | Genever | A spirit made from the fermented mash of grains, usually rye, corn, barley, and wheat and distileld with juniper and other botanicals or made from a blend of malt spirt and botanical spirit. Genever may be contain up to 20g of sugar per liter and can only be produced in Belgium, The Netherlands, Départements Nord and Pas- de-Calais in France as well as German Bundesländer Nordrhein-Westfalen and Niedersachsen in Germany. |
| Gin | Navy-Strength Gin | Gin bottled at 57% ABV. |
| Gin | Old Tom Gin | Sugar sweetened, botanically sweetened, or botanically intense gin that may be rested in wood barrels. |
| Gin | Signature Botanical Gin | A gin that identifies a small number botanical other than juniper that is ment to be highlighted and take the forefront with juniper in a secondary role. |
| Liqueur | Citrus Liqueur | A liqueur flavored through distillation, maceration, and or extract of one or more citrus fruit peels, flesh, or juice. |
| Liqueur | Coffee Liqueur | A liqueur flavored through distillation, maceration, and or extract of coffee beans, grounds or brewed coffee. |
| Liqueur | Cream Liqueur | A liqueur that includes the addition of cream. |
| Liqueur | Fruit Liqueur | A liqueur flavored through distillation, maceration, and or extract of one or more fruit peels, flesh, or juice, that does not include citrus as the primary flavor. |
| Liqueur | Herbal/Botanical/Spiced Liqueur | A liqueur flavored with any number of herbs, botanicals, and or spices. |
| Liqueur | Nut Liqueur | A liqueur flavored through distillation, maceration, and or extract with one or more tree nuts. |
| Liqueur | Other Liqueur | A liqueur that does not fit into any of the other liqueur categories, may include spirit liqueurs (rum, gin, whiskey etc.) |
| Rum/Cachaca | AOC Martinique Rhum Agricole | As defined By French Law |
| Rum/Cachaca | Cachaca | As defined By Brazillian Law |
| Rum/Cachaca | Column Still Rum | A spirit distilled in a column still from the fermented juice of sugar cane, sugar cane syrup, sugar cane molasses, or other sugar cane by-products, to no more than 95% ABV and bottled at not less than 40% ABV. The spirit may be aged in oak barrels. |
| Rum/Cachaca | Flavored Rum | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Rum/Cachaca | Navy-Style Rum | A high ester rum produced through distillation and or blendeing and modeled after the British Navy Rum blend. Must be bottled at not less than 40% ABV. |
| Rum/Cachaca | Overproof Rum | A rum bottled at not less than 57% ABV. |
| Rum/Cachaca | Pot Still Rum | A spirit distilled in a pot still from the fermented juice of sugar cane, sugar cane syrup, sugar cane molasses, or other sugar cane by-products, to no more than 95% ABV and bottled at not less than 40% ABV. The spirit may be aged in oak barrels. |
| Rum/Cachaca | Pot-Column Blended Rum | A spirit blended from distillates individualy produced in pot and column stills from the fermented juice of sugar cane, sugar cane syrup, sugar cane molasses, or other sugar cane by-products, to no more than 95% ABV and bottled at not less than 40% ABV. The spirit may be aged in oak barrels. |
| Rum/Cachaca | Spiced Rum | A rum flavored though distillation, maceration of other flavoring addtions of spices and bottled at not less than 40% ABV. |
| Rum/Cachaca | Sweet Cachaca | As defined By Brazillian Law |
| Rum/Cachaca | Rhum Agricole / Rum Agricole | Rum made from Sugar Cane Juice |
| Specialty | Absinthe | A spirit with a main characteristic derived from the combination of Grand Wormwood (Artemisia Absinthium), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) and Anis Seed (Pimpinella Anisum) produced by the distillation of spirits with Grand Wormwood, Fennel, Anis and other herbs and botanicals and bottled at not less than 45% ABV. No sugar may be added. |
| Specialty | Alcohol Free Drinks | An alcohol free drink that may be flavored through distillation, maceration or other flavor additives menat to mimich a known spirit category or a novel base for an alcohol free cocktail. |
| Specialty | Aperitif Wine | A wine that has been infused with botanicals and may be fortified with neautral brandy. |
| Specialty | Aquavit | A distilled spirit that derives its main characteristic flavor from carroway or dill and bottled at no less than 40% ABV. |
| Specialty | Bier Schnapps | A spirit distilled from beer made from malted barley and hops. |
| Specialty | Fortified Wine | A wine that has been fortified by adding neautral grape spirit, or brandy, to the wine during the production process. |
| Specialty | Moonshine | Any spirit distilled from a fermented mash of sugar, grain, or a mixture of both that is also marketed as Moonshine. Moonshine may be aged and or flavored. |
| Specialty | Non-potable Bitters | A cocktail additive, not meant for straight consumption, which is produced through extraction of various botanicals and bittering agents via alcohol or glycerin. |
| Specialty | Other Specialty Spirits | Some other innovative spirit that does not fit any of the regular spirit categories. |
| Specialty | Ready-to-Drink Cocktails | Spirits and mixers pre-batched and portioned for one or more servings into classic or novel cocktails. |
| Specialty | Shochu | A traditional Japanese spirit distilled from starch, usually from one or more of the following: rice, barley, buckwheat, sweet potatoes, and wheat. Shochu is not typically matured in wood barrels and they are usually bottled at less than 45% ABV. |
| Specialty | Soju | A traditional Korean spirit produced from discontinuous distillation to not more than 85% ABV of a fermented mash developed from the basic constituents of a starch source, yeast and water. |
| Specialty | Sotol | A distilled spirit made from Dasylirion wheeleri plant in the Mexican States of Chihuahua, Coahuila, and Durango. The pinas are cooked in above ground ovens and distilled in column stills. |
| Vodka | Aged Vodka | A vodka that has been rested or matured in a non-neutral wood barrel from which it extracts flavors and color. |
| Vodka | Botanical Vodka | A vodka that has been flavored through the distillation or maceration of real botanicals, not extracts. Any color is the result of post-distillation maceration of real botanicals. |
| Vodka | Flavored vodka | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Vodka | Vodka: Neutral Character | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Vodka | Vodka: Residual Base Character | A spirit that has been distilled at or above 95% ABV in such away that it retains some residual flavor from its agricultural base. |
| Whiskey | American Single Malt Whiskey | As defined by the American Single Malt Whiskey Comission |
| Whiskey | Blended Scotch | As defined in the Scotch Whisky Regulations |
| Whiskey | Blended Whiskey (includes blended bourbon, blended straight whiskeys etc.) | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Whiskey | Bourbon | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Whiskey | Corn Whiskey | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Whiskey | Flavored Whiskey | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Whiskey | Hopped Whiskey | A whiskey distilled from a hopped fermented mash of grains (beer), a whiskey distilled with hops as a botanical, a whiskey macerated with hops, or a whiskey aged in used beer barrels. |
| Whiskey | Irish Blended Whiskey | As defined in The Irish Whiskey Technical File |
| Whiskey | Irish Grain Whiskey | As defined in The Irish Whiskey Technical File |
| Whiskey | Irish Single Malt Whiskey | As defined in The Irish Whiskey Technical File |
| Whiskey | Irish Single Pot-Still Whiskey | As defined in The Irish Whiskey Technical File |
| Whiskey | Light Whiskey | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Whiskey | Malt Whiskey | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Whiskey | Non-typical Whiskey | A whiskey distiled from a fermented mash of at least 51% one non-typical grain (oats, millit, triticale etc.) or pseudocereal (amaranth, buckwheat, quinoa etc.) to not more then 80% ABV, stored in new charred oak barrels at not more than 62.5% ABV, and bottled at not less than 40% ABV. |
| Whiskey | Rye Whiskey | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Whiskey | Scotch Grain Whisky | As defined in the Scotch Whisky Regulations |
| Whiskey | Single Malt Scotch | As defined in the Scotch Whisky Regulations |
| Whiskey | Smoked Whiskey | A whiskey distilled from a fermented mash of grains, some portion of which has been smoked, or a whiskey infused with somke post distillation. |
| Whiskey | Spirit Whiskey | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Whiskey | Wheat Whiskey | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Whiskey | Whiskey (includes whiskey distilled from bourbon mash, rye mash etc.) | As defined in the US Standards of Identity |
| Whiskey | White Whiskey | A whiskey distilled from a fermented mash of grain at less than 95% ABV. The whiskey may be stored in oak barrels and bottled at not less then 40% ABV. |
To find a list of all the categories that are judged across this event, please follow this link.
The quality of spirits and liqueurs is dependent on the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the producer. Not all products are created equal, and the purpose of this event is to make the best products shine.
We aim to celebrate the creators who go to great lengths to hone their art with time.
During judging, products are evaluated double-blind, meaning that the tasters have no idea who produced the products, or the name of the products, except the type of product evaluated, and the needs and expectations that the product is supposed to fulfil.
The judges each make up their own minds as to the quality of the product, without conferring with each other to reach a consensus. The judge’s score is not subject to their own taste, instead, they evaluate products from the viewpoint of consumers who loves products in that category.
The wines will be judged according to international standards on a 100-point scale.
Throughout the process, judges have access to palate cleansers.
Superior products will be granted Silver, Gold and Double Gold awards to recognise products with excellent taste. These producers will be able to display this award artwork on the product itself, in digital and print media for a period of three years from when the awards are granted, as long as the quality of the product does not change from that of the original sample, and dependent on the terms of a non-exclusive licence agreement.
Trophy awards will also be conferred on products that are truly exceptional and top of their class.
Stickers may be purchased from the organisers and may not be printed by any other party. The stickers can however be incorporated within your packaging material at no extra cost.
There will be only one print run, and extra stickers will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
The judges will consist of sommeliers, chefs and food industry specialists with years of international experience.
To find an extensive overview of this element with all the information you need, please download the PDF with all the information.
Unlabeled samples must be representative of the final product and must be in their final bottled state. Tank samples are not allowed.
Tank samples are not allowed. Products should be in their final bottled state.
We will endeavour to have the stickers/decals ready around two weeks after the results are announced.
An electronic certificate will be sent by email to the winners. If the exact same product is sold under different brand names, you can request a certificate for each brand at no extra cost.
A product may only be entered once, even if it is available under a different brand name.
Please respect the cold chain at all times when sending samples.
After you have registered here, you can either directly do entries online, or later login here to do entries.
Here is an example of an online entry:
International spirits/wine/liqueurs and alcoholic beverage samples that are sent by courier, should have every package and waybill marked as, "NOT FOR RESALE. SAMPLES ONLY".
The transport cost of samples, as well as import duty and customs costs, are for the entrant's account. The event organisers will not be responsible for any costs related to receiving the samples. Shipments must be shipped DDP, and the shipping documents must be made out to the following consignee:
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
9 Forest Street
Welgevonden
Stellenbosch
7600
South Africa
DHL is our Logistics partner and is well-versed regarding local shipping. Please contact Marijke Douglas at DHL by email at Marijke.Douglas@dhl.com or contact her at +27 (0)21 872 4717 for more details.
You do not need to be registered by a certain body, like the FDA for example. You will need a commercial invoice with realistic values for the products. For samples with a volume of above 12 litres, special arrangements have to be made.
To make sure alcoholic samples arrive in time, the samples can be sent way ahead of time, earlier than that indicated for other samples.
Registration and entries open 25 March 2025.
Early Bird Entries Close 23 May 2025
International entries close: 20 June 2025
Local Entries close: 4 July 2025
Cut off date to pay for entries 11 July 2025
First delivery option (2-day delivery window): General Sample delivery: 21 and 22 July 2025 to tasting venue just outside Stellenbosch, South Africa.
Second delivery option (45-day delivery window – from 2 June to 18 July 2025) - to DHL Paarl, and Stellenbosch, South Africa, for samples arriving from afar.
Third delivery option (window of many months), any time before the sample tasting, until 18 July 2025, to Stellenbosch, for samples sent early, to make sure they arrive on time.
General results released 30 July 2025, except Olive and Olive Oil results, released 20 August 2025.
Early Bird Entries are, R1510.00 excl. VAT per entry (approximately USD95 or EUR90). Entries should be entered by 23 May 2025.
Regular Entry is, R1895.00 excl. VAT per entry (approximately USD120 or EUR110), if entered by 4 July 2025.
Stickers are R470.00 excluding VAT per 1000 (approximately USD30 or EUR27).
One entry comprises one variation of a product, for instance, banana flavour, and strawberry flavour versions would be two different entries. If there are flavour, taste or chemical differences between products, they would constitute separate entries. When in doubt: One flavour = one entry.
If the same product that is chemically, and taste-wise identical, come in different forms of packaging (for example glass and plastic refills) or in different sizes (250 ml, 500 ml etc.), they only have to be entered once in whichever size presented. We will provide additional personalised certificates to all the packaging sizes if necessary, but the certificate is normally made out to the product, and not the particular packaging format.
If the same product (that is chemically and flavour-wise identical), is available under different brand names, the product may only be entered once, and we will provide additional personalised certificates to all the brand names if the product is awarded.
Most often you can add your own type or flavour, by clicking on "Other" in dropdown menus, as illustrated in the video below.
To submit online entries, you have to register online on the registration page.
Once you are registered, you can either directly proceed to submit entries online, or login later with your email address and password that was emailed to you, on the login page.
Below is a very short video showing the basic process of logging in, and submitting an entry online.
For dried and cured meats, the following samples are needed:
For all other meat samples:
Please respect the cold chain at all times when sending samples.
For pre-ground coffee or beans:
For pods:
For dried and cured meats, the following samples are needed:
For all other meat samples:
Please respect the cold chain at all times when sending samples.
Table olives:
Olive oil:
The award may only be used for the particular product that was entered, but if the exact same product (that is organoleptically and chemically identical), is marketed under a different brand name, the award may be used on that product as well. An additional award certificate will be granted at no extra cost to the other identical products.
Where the quality of the product is dependent on the vintage, a particular batch of ingredients, or any other factors that make the quality of the product batch-dependant, the award may only be used on the particular batch that won the award.
Professional chefs, with professional equipment, follow the exact instructions of the person entering. Products are however evaluated from the viewpoint of the consumer, and products that are too complicated for the average consumer to prepare will be scored down.
The judging process will be audited by an accredited auditing firm to ensure that the judges are not influenced and that the tasting is done blind, and conforms to international standards.
The same product cannot be entered twice. For example, coffee that is available in different formats, for instance, pods, beans and ground coffee may only be entered once, and if awarded, we will provide additional certificates to represent all formats.
The same product may not be entered by different parties or people.
A product may only be entered into one category per year.
Products that contain CBD and THC may enter, and if it is not stated in the category entered, please mention it after the name of the product.
Please include the flavour or any other distinguishing details of your product in its name when doing the entry online, to be able to identify every product afterwards.
Products that are entered must be sensorially and chemically identical to commercial products they represent in every practical way.
Companies may enter as many products as they want.
You are welcome to choose your own category or contact us.
The organisers may change the category of the product to a category more suitable for judging at their own discretion.
Samples must be delivered between 09:00 and 16:00 on 21 and 22 July 2025.
Participants may use any courier, but please ensure that samples are delivered to:
The Aurora International Taste Challenge
C/o Michelle Grimbeek
The Conference Centre
Klein Joostenberg
R304 Muldersvlei
Koelenhof Road
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/d8FqZcKnd1CETFg76
The person receiving the samples:
Michelle Grimbeek
Email:michelle@ttpromotions.co.za
Mobile: +27 (0)82 773 0738
GPS coordinates: - 33 82’ 66 21 S / 18 79” 55 15 W
Samples must be delivered between 9:00 and 16:00 on the two days allocated (21 and 22 July 2025).
Second delivery option (45-day delivery window – from 2 June to 18 July 2025) - to DHL Paarl, and Stellenbosch, South Africa, for samples arriving from afar.
When sending samples that need to remain at a constant temperature during the cold chain, discuss the appropriate packaging and shipping option with DHL to ensure the products do not arrive over a weekend when no cold chain facilities are available.
Please send samples to:
DHL Paarl
35 Zandwyk Park
Old Paarl Road
Paarl
South Africa
For the attention of The Aurora International Taste Challenge
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
C/o Marijke Douglas
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YnurDXHgMTbrapEu9
DHL will consolidate the samples to make sure they are delivered on time.
Products from outside South Africa need the necessary time to clear customs. Also, add the wording: “Samples of no commercial value - for attention The Aurora International Taste Challenge C/o Marijke Douglas”.
Please allow at least two weeks for samples to clear the port authority.
Send the samples to:
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
9 Forest Road
Welgevonden
Stellenbosch
7600
South Africa
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G2zMtUZ7GYyNTHEC9
C/o Louis Nel
Mobile: +27 (0)82 775 87 26
Courier please phone ahead for a PIN
International spirits/wine/liqueurs and alcoholic beverage samples that are sent by courier, should have every package and way bill marked as, "NOT FOR RESALE. SAMPLES ONLY".
The transport cost of samples, as well as import duty and customs costs, are for the entrant's account. The alcohol level of the samples has to be indicated on the commercial invoice, especially if the product is something that would normally have alcohol (like alcohol-free beer or gin) because it is used to determine the tariff codes. The event organisers will not be responsible for any costs related to receiving the samples. Shipments must be shipped DDP, and the shipping documents must be made out to the following consignee:
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
9 Forest Road
Welgevonden
Stellenbosch
7600
South Africa
Co. Louis Nel
Mobile: +27 (0)82 775 87 26
Your courier company will have to take care of every aspect of the journey, including the time the samples may be at the port authority. The AITC does not intervene or facilitate any aspects of transport, except receiving the samples at the designated locations.
We have two preferred suppliers, namely DHL and Jet8. DHL covers the whole world, while Jet8 specialises in countries like Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Canada.
For DHL, please contact Marijke Douglas at DHL by email at mailto:Marijke.Douglas@dhl.com or contact her at +27 (0)21 872 4717 for more details.
When making use of JET8, please contact Momo Arai by email at event@jet8cargo.com
You do not need to be registered by a certain body, like the FDA, for example. You will need a commercial invoice with realistic values for the products. For samples with a volume of above 12 litres, special arrangements have to be made.
When you register, you receive an email with your username and password. Please search for this email, and if necessary look in your spam folder.
To avoid missing any emails, or correspondence, it is the responsibility of entrants to add the domain "aurorachallenge.com" to the safe sender's list, to avoid missing any correspondence. In Outlook, go to the "Home" Tab, and in the "Delete" group, select the arrow next to "Junk". Select "Junk Email Options". In the "Junk Email Options" dialogue box, go to the "Safe Senders" tab. Select Add. Add the domain aurorachallenge.com and click "OK". The domain will then appear on the safe sender's list. Select "OK".
If you cannot find the email, please contact us.
Every year, the details of companies change, or we need additional information. We, therefore, require all companies to register afresh every year.
When you register for the year, you receive an email with your username and password. Please search for this email, and if necessary look in your spam folder.
To avoid missing any emails, or correspondence, it is the responsibility of entrants to add the domain "aurorachallenge.com" to the safe sender's list, to avoid missing any correspondence. In Outlook, go to the "Home" Tab, and in the "Delete" group, select the arrow next to "Junk". Select "Junk Email Options". In the "Junk Email Options" dialogue box, go to the "Safe Senders" tab. Select Add. Add the domain aurorachallenge.com and click "OK". The domain will then appear on the safe sender's list. Select "OK".
If you cannot find the email, please contact us.
There are several ways to pay once entries have been completed.
Foreign currency invoices may only be paid by non-South African companies and individuals.
Entries that are not fully paid by the cut-off date may be disqualified. Samples of disqualified products will not be judged or returned.
No refund of entry fees will be done once entries have closed. If the entry is withdrawn, or if the sample does not arrive in time, no refund will be given. It is the responsibility of the entrant to manage entries and delivery, to make sure the correct samples arrive on time, and only samples that all samples that have to be judged are delivered on time.
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
9 Forest Road
Welgevonden
Stellenbosch
7600
South Africa
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G2zMtUZ7GYyNTHEC9
Co. Louis Nel
Mobile: +27 (0)82 775 87 26
Couriers please phone ahead for PIN.
International spirits/wine/liqueurs and alcoholic beverage samples that are sent by courier, should have every package and way bill marked as, "NOT FOR RESALE. SAMPLES ONLY".
The transport cost of samples, as well as import duty and customs costs, are for the entrant's account. The event organisers will not be responsible for any costs related to receiving the samples. Shipments must be shipped DDP, and the shipping documents must be made out to the following consignee:
We have two preferred suppliers, namely DHL and Jet8. DHL covers the whole world, while Jet8 specialises in countries like Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Canada.
Please contact Marijke Douglas at DHL by email at Marijke.Douglas@dhl.com or contact her at +27 (0)21 872 4717 for more details.
When making use of JET8, please contact Momo Arai by email at event@jet8cargo.com
You do not need to be registered by a certain body, like the FDA, for example. You will need a commercial invoice with realistic values for the products. For samples with a volume of above 12 litres, special arrangements have to be made.
To make sure alcoholic samples arrive in time, the samples can be sent way ahead of time, earlier than that indicated for other samples. Always indicate the alcohol percentage with alcoholic products, and even products that do not contain alcohol, like alcohol-free gin, that might be confused with alcoholic gin.
Our system is set up to respect the cold chain when we receive samples. All sampling receiving procedures are geared to allow for cool room temperature, refrigeration or freezing storage conditions as needed.
We will ensure products are handled with the utmost respect and delicacy to maximise quality until the product is evaluated.
International spirits/wine/liqueurs and alcoholic beverage samples that are sent by courier, should have every package and way bill marked as, "NOT FOR RESALE. SAMPLES ONLY".
The transport cost of samples, as well as import duty and customs costs, are for the entrant's account. The alcohol level of the samples has to be indicated on the commercial invoice, especially if the product is something that would normally have alcohol (like alcohol-free beer or gin) because it is used to determine the tariff codes. The event organisers will not be responsible for any costs related to receiving the samples. Shipments must be shipped DDP, and the shipping documents must be made out to the following consignee:
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
9 Forest Road
Welgevonden
Stellenbosch
7600
South Africa
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G2zMtUZ7GYyNTHEC9
Co. Louis Nel
Mobile: +27 (82) 775 87 26
Courier please phone ahead for PIN.
We have two preferred suppliers, namely DHL and Jet8. DHL covers the whole world, while Jet8 specialises in countries like Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Canada.
Please contact Marijke Douglas at DHL by email at Marijke.Douglas@dhl.com or contact her at +27 (0)21 872 4717 for more details.
When making use of JET8, please contact Momo Arai by email at event@jet8cargo.com
You do not need to be registered by a certain body, like the FDA, for example. You will need a commercial invoice with realistic values for the products. For samples with a volume of above 12 litres, special arrangements have to be made.
To make sure alcoholic samples arrive in time, the samples can be sent way ahead of time, earlier than that indicated for other samples.
For dried and cured meats, the following samples are needed:
For all other meat samples:
Please respect the cold chain at all times when sending samples.
For pre-ground coffee or beans:
For pods:
For dried and cured meats, the following samples are needed:
For all other meat samples:
Please respect the cold chain at all times when sending samples.
Table olives:
Olive oil:
Only samples that arrive by courier at the designated drop-off point will be accepted. Samples will not be fetched from anywhere else, including the post office.
Samples should not be sent through the post office system at any time. Only packages from courier companies will be accepted.
Products that are sent that have to maintain the cold chain, need to be packed accordingly, and overnight services can be used.
Late entries might not be accepted.
It is the responsibility of the entrant to work closely with their courier or postal service to know which products are allowed over borders, and which need special permission or certificates. Honey, for example, is only allowed if radiated.
Only samples that are within their Sell-by/Best Before/ Use by date will be judged, and will otherwise be disqualified.
Products that arrive that have damage to their packaging, or that pose the faintest threat of being spoilt, will be disqualified without exception. Robust products, like for example canned goods that have a few dents, will be allowed.
Packaging material involved with the shipping of samples will not be returned.
Entries that arrive too late to be judged, or entries that are cancelled for any reason, will not be returned.
Samples must be delivered between 09:00 and 16:00 on 21 and 22 July 2025.
Participants may use any courier, but please ensure that samples are delivered to:
The Aurora International Taste Challenge
C/o Michelle Grimbeek
The Conference Centre
Klein Joostenberg
R304 Muldersvlei
Koelenhof Road
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/d8FqZcKnd1CETFg76
The person receiving the samples:
Michelle Grimbeek
Email:michelle@ttpromotions.co.za
Mobile: +27 (0)82 773 0738
GPS coordinates: - 33 82’ 66 21 S / 18 79” 55 15 W
Samples must be delivered between 9:00 and 16:00 on the two days allocated (21 and 22 July 2025).
Second delivery option (45-day delivery window – from 2 June to 18 July 2025) - to DHL Paarl, and Stellenbosch, South Africa, for samples arriving from afar.
When sending samples that need to remain at a constant temperature during the cold chain, discuss the appropriate packaging and shipping option with DHL to ensure the products do not arrive over a weekend when no cold chain facilities are available.
Please send samples to:
DHL Paarl
35 Zandwyk Park
Old Paarl Road
Paarl
South Africa
For the attention of The Aurora International Taste Challenge
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
C/o Marijke Douglas
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YnurDXHgMTbrapEu9
DHL will consolidate the samples to make sure they are delivered on time.
Products from outside South Africa need the necessary time to clear customs. Also, add the wording: “Samples of no commercial value - for attention The Aurora International Taste Challenge C/o Marijke Douglas”.
Please allow at least two weeks for samples to clear the port authority.
Send the samples to:
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
9 Forest Road
Welgevonden
Stellenbosch
7600
South Africa
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G2zMtUZ7GYyNTHEC9
C/o Louis Nel
Mobile: +27 (0)82 775 87 26
Courier please phone ahead for a PIN
International spirits/wine/liqueurs and alcoholic beverage samples that are sent by courier, should have every package and way bill marked as, "NOT FOR RESALE. SAMPLES ONLY".
The transport cost of samples, as well as import duty and customs costs, are for the entrant's account. The alcohol level of the samples has to be indicated on the commercial invoice, especially if the product is something that would normally have alcohol (like alcohol-free beer or gin) because it is used to determine the tariff codes. The event organisers will not be responsible for any costs related to receiving the samples. Shipments must be shipped DDP, and the shipping documents must be made out to the following consignee:
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
9 Forest Road
Welgevonden
Stellenbosch
7600
South Africa
Co. Louis Nel
Mobile: +27 (0)82 775 87 26
Your courier company will have to take care of every aspect of the journey, including the time the samples may be at the port authority. The AITC does not intervene or facilitate any aspects of transport, except receiving the samples at the designated locations.
We have two preferred suppliers, namely DHL and Jet8. DHL covers the whole world, while Jet8 specialises in countries like Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Canada.
For DHL, please contact Marijke Douglas at DHL by email at mailto:Marijke.Douglas@dhl.com or contact her at +27 (0)21 872 4717 for more details.
When making use of JET8, please contact Momo Arai by email at event@jet8cargo.com
You do not need to be registered by a certain body, like the FDA, for example. You will need a commercial invoice with realistic values for the products. For samples with a volume of above 12 litres, special arrangements have to be made.
Only samples that arrive by courier at the designated drop-off point will be accepted. Samples will not be fetched from anywhere else, including the post office.
Samples should not be sent through the post office system at any time. Only packages from courier companies will be accepted.
Products that are sent that have to maintain the cold chain, need to be packed accordingly, and overnight services can be used.
Late entries might not be accepted.
It is the responsibility of the entrant to work closely with their courier or postal service to know which products are allowed over borders, and which need special permission or certificates. Honey, for example, is only allowed if radiated.
Only samples that are within their Sell-by/Best Before/ Use by date will be judged, and will otherwise be disqualified.
Products that arrive that have damage to their packaging, or that pose the faintest threat of being spoilt, will be disqualified without exception. Robust products, like for example canned goods that have a few dents, will be allowed.
Packaging material involved with the shipping of samples will not be returned.
Entries that arrive too late to be judged, or entries that are cancelled for any reason, will not be returned.
Samples must be delivered between 09:00 and 16:00 on 21 and 22 July 2025.
Participants may use any courier, but please ensure that samples are delivered to:
The Aurora International Taste Challenge
C/o Michelle Grimbeek
The Conference Centre
Klein Joostenberg
R304 Muldersvlei
Koelenhof Road
Stellenbosch
South Africa
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/d8FqZcKnd1CETFg76
The person receiving the samples:
Michelle Grimbeek
Email:michelle@ttpromotions.co.za
Mobile: +27 (0)82 773 0738
GPS coordinates: - 33 82’ 66 21 S / 18 79” 55 15 W
Samples must be delivered between 9:00 and 16:00 on the two days allocated (21 and 22 July 2025).
Second delivery option (45-day delivery window – from 2 June to 18 July 2025) - to DHL Paarl, and Stellenbosch, South Africa, for samples arriving from afar.
When sending samples that need to remain at a constant temperature during the cold chain, discuss the appropriate packaging and shipping option with DHL to ensure the products do not arrive over a weekend when no cold chain facilities are available.
Please send samples to:
DHL Paarl
35 Zandwyk Park
Old Paarl Road
Paarl
South Africa
For the attention of The Aurora International Taste Challenge
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
C/o Marijke Douglas
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YnurDXHgMTbrapEu9
DHL will consolidate the samples to make sure they are delivered on time.
Products from outside South Africa need the necessary time to clear customs. Also, add the wording: “Samples of no commercial value - for attention The Aurora International Taste Challenge C/o Marijke Douglas”.
Please allow at least two weeks for samples to clear the port authority.
Send the samples to:
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
9 Forest Road
Welgevonden
Stellenbosch
7600
South Africa
Map reference: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G2zMtUZ7GYyNTHEC9
C/o Louis Nel
Mobile: +27 (0)82 775 87 26
Courier please phone ahead for a PIN
Because DHL consolidates deliveries, the prices will be reduced. Make sure you arrange with Marijke on Marijke.Douglas@dhl.com or phone her on +27 (0)21 872 4717 to get the necessary detail.
Overnight deliveries and deliveries from outside of South Africa will be at normal DHL rates.
Only samples sent from outside of South Africa will accrue taxes, clearance and customs fees.
International spirits/wine/liqueurs and alcoholic beverage samples that are sent by courier, should have every package and waybill marked as, "NOT FOR RESALE. SAMPLES ONLY".
The transport cost of samples, as well as import duty and customs costs, are for the entrant's account. The event organisers will not be responsible for any costs related to receiving the samples. Shipments must be shipped DDP, and the shipping documents must be made out to the following consignee:
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
9 Forest Street
Welgevonden
Stellenbosch
7600
South Africa
DHL is our Logistics partner and is well-versed regarding local shipping. Please contact Marijke Douglas at DHL by email at Marijke.Douglas@dhl.com or contact her at +27 (0)21 872 4717 for more details.
You do not need to be registered by a certain body, like the FDA for example. You will need a commercial invoice with realistic values for the products. For samples with a volume of above 12 litres, special arrangements have to be made.
To make sure alcoholic samples arrive in time, the samples can be sent way ahead of time, earlier than that indicated for other samples.
For every country, this is different, so it is best to liaise with your courier company regarding this to make sure you are covered.
Normally, the paperwork needed is not that complicated, but we know for the following two instances where extra paperwork is needed:
It is best to consult your courier/transport company to make sure.
DHL and JET8 are our Logistics partners, and they are well-versed regarding local shipping.
Please contact Marijke Douglas at DHL by email at Marijke.Douglas@dhl.com or contact her at +27 (0)21 872 4717 for more details.
When making use of JET8, please contact Momo Arai by email at event@jet8cargo.com
International samples that are sent by courier, should have every package and way bill marked as, "NOT FOR RESALE. SAMPLES ONLY".
The transport cost of samples, as well as import duty and customs costs, are for the entrant's account. The event organisers will not be responsible for any costs related to receiving the samples. Shipments must be shipped DDP, and the shipping documents must be made out to the following consignee:
Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd
Customs Reg # 21782915
VAT # 4160278406
9 Forest Road
Welgevonden
Stellenbosch
7600
South Africa
Co. Louis Nel
Cell: +27 (82) 775 87 26
We have to stress how important the courier company is for transporting your samples. They can be the difference between success, and failure to arrive.
The award artwork may be used on the specific product that was awarded, subject to a non-exclusive licence agreement, subject to the terms of the non-exclusive license agreement. As long as the award is used, along with the year it was achieved, it may be used indefinitely.
Where the quality of the product is dependent on the vintage, a particular batch of ingredients, or any other factors that make the quality of the product batch-dependant, the award may only be used on the particular batch that won the award.
The award may only be used for the particular product that was entered, but if the exact same product (that is organoleptically and chemically identical), is marketed under a different brand name, the award may be used on that product as well. An additional award certificate will be granted at no extra cost to the other identical products.
Where the quality of the product is dependent on the vintage, a particular batch of ingredients, or any other factors that make the quality of the product batch-dependant, the award may only be used on the particular batch that won the award.
The judging process will be audited by an accredited auditing firm to ensure that the judges are not influenced and that the tasting is done blind, and conforms to international standards.
Products will generally be judged on aroma, flavour, mouth feel and overall impression using a proprietary scoring system. Besides these basic criteria, each category will have more relevant and specific criteria to evaluate every category on its own strengths.
Professional chefs, with professional equipment, follow the exact instructions of the person entering. Products are however evaluated from the viewpoint of the consumer, and products that are too complicated for the average consumer to prepare will be scored down.
During judging, products are always evaluated double-blind, meaning that the tasters have no idea of who produced the products, or the name of the products, except the type of product evaluated, and the needs and expectations that the product is supposed to fulfil.
The judges each make up their own minds as to the quality of the product, without conferring with each other to reach a consensus. The judges' score is not subject to their own taste, instead, they evaluate products from the viewpoint of consumers who love products in that category.
Beverages, sauces and food products will be served at the appropriate temperature.
We make use of the finest experts with intensive international experience to evaluate the products. The judges consist of chefs, sommeliers and product-specific experts with an intimate knowledge of quality.
Stickers may only be purchased from the organisers and may not be printed by any other party. With the stickers, there is a very high standard involved, with the printing, paper and foiling.
Only Silver, Gold and Double Gold stickers will be printed by the AITC. Silver, and Trophy stickers may be incorporated into packaging, and the artwork may be used digitally.
The sticker artwork may however be incorporated in packaging, as long as the artwork is not used on its own to represent a free standing sticker.
Representation of what the individual stickers will look like:
Examples of sticker artwork that may be incorporated in packaging.
Stickers can also be represented in black and white, or in other colours in packaging, as long as the original award is not called into confusion. For example, a silver award cannot be represented with gold colours.
Similar artwork that can be used, with or without the bottom ribbon.
You may definitely incorporate your award in your label, and we will provide you with the vector artwork at no extra cost. The artwork comes in a few different versions, but you are welcome to change the colours to fit in with your label, as long as you do not change the colour of a silver award to gold, or something similar that can be confusing.
Here is an example of the variations of the artwork that can be used.
The individual stickers, however, may only be printed by the AITC. With the stickers, there is a very high standard involved, with the printing, paper and foiling. Only Silver, Gold and Double Gold stickers will be printed by the AITC.
Stickers will be available to buy for winning products at R470.00 excluding VAT per 1000 (approximately USD30 or EU27).
Stickers come in multiples of 1 000.
The stickers are 25 mm in diameter.
The stickers are printed with bright, cold foil.
The stickers come on rolls that have a 41 mm core diameter, and are wound leading edge left. Different core sizes, or winding techniques if needed, must be specified when the final sticker count is confirmed.
An electronic certificate will be emailed to the winning participants. Subject to adherence to the terms of the non-exclusive licence agreement, winners will also have a non-exclusive licence to make use of the digital award artwork kit, with various logos and award artwork to use on their product, in email signatures, in digital and in print media for a period of three years from the time the awards are announced (except for products that are vintage dependant, or subject to special circumstances that vary from batch to batch). No physical trophies or awards are presented.
There will be only one print run, and excess stickers will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Your stickers are printed especially for you at your request, and if you do not want the stickers, please do not order.
The company where we will leave the stickers to be picked up can arrange transport to anywhere in the world. The award winners deal directly with the transport company, for transport quotes or any pick-up related issues.
There are no licensing costs, and the entrants are free to use the award artwork as they see fit for a period of three years (subject to a non-exclusive licence agreement).
Where the quality of the product is dependent on the vintage, a particular batch of ingredients, or any other factors that make the quality of the product batch-dependant, the award may only be used on the particular batch that won the award.
Stickers may only be printed by the AITC.
Sticker and award artwork may be incorporated into the labels of products at no extra cost.
Artwork may only be used in association with the product that won the award, for a period of three years.
Award artwork may be used on the awarded producer's website, or email signature to show that they won an award, but must be associated with the specific products that won the award.
Award artwork may not be used in any way where it is implied that other products that did not win awards, won awards.
If the product changes significantly chemically, or sensorially, the award cannot be used in association with the product any more.
When you enter your product, you are asked how many stickers you would like to order if that product is awarded.
After that, you are again on two different occasions asked to confirm the quantity (in case the quantity changes, or if you decide either to order or not to order).
After the results are released, there is the final cut-off time for sticker confirmation, and the stickers are printed on your request, and you are obliged to pay for the stickers.
Please ensure you are reachable by email because if you do not change your order, your last order will stand.
If you do not want stickers, if you are in doubt that you want stickers, or if somebody who determines if your company will order the stickers has perhaps not given the go-ahead, do not order stickers. Enter “0” – zero during entry, or later when asked to confirm the sticker quantity.
There will be only one print run, and excess stickers will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Your stickers are printed especially for you at your request, so if you do not want the stickers, do not order them.
The company where we will leave the stickers to be picked up can arrange transport to anywhere in the world.
If you cannot arrange for the collection of the stickers in South Africa, which is very straightforward, please do not order stickers.
Stickers come in multiples of 1 000, and 2000.
The stickers are 25 mm in diameter.
The stickers are printed with bright, cold foil.
The stickers come on rolls that have a 41 mm core diameter, and are wound leading edge left. Different core sizes, or winding techniques if needed, must be specified when the final sticker count is confirmed.
The individual stickers, however, may only be printed by the AITC. When printing the stickers, there is a very high standard involved, with the printing, paper and foiling. Only Silver, Gold and Double Gold Stickers will be printed.
The stickers will be available approximately two weeks after the results have been confirmed.
The stickers will be available for collection at an address in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa, for the account of the entrant. It is the responsibility of the entrant to arrange payment for the stickers, and arrange for the pick-up of the stickers. The company where the stickers can be picked up can arrange for the stickers to be sent by courier, and you can liaise directly with them.
There are several ways to pay for the stickers:
Foreign currency invoices may only be paid by non-South African companies and individuals.
Superior products will be granted Silver, Gold and Double Gold awards to recognise products with excellent taste. Very rarely are Trophy awards awarded. These producers will be able to display this award artwork on the product itself, in digital and print media for a period of three years from when the awards are granted, as long as the quality of the product does not change from that of the original sample, and dependent on the terms of a non-exclusive licence agreement.
Trophy awards will also be conferred on products that are truly exceptional, and top of their class.
Stickers may be purchased from the organisers and may not be printed by any other party. Only Silver, Gold and Double Gold stickers will be printed by the AITC.
There will be only one print run, and extra stickers will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
The sticker artwork may however be incorporated in packaging, as long as the artwork is not used on its own to represent a free standing sticker.
Our judges have extensive international taste experience and can judge products from both a local and international standpoint.
Only samples that arrive by courier to the designated address will be accepted. Samples will not be fetched from any other address.
Avoid using the local post office, or sending via the post office at all times. Samples will not be picked up from the post office.
A product may only be entered once, even if it is available under a different brand name.
Entries will only be accepted in English.
Tank samples will not be accepted as entries into the event.
There is no minimum stock quantity needed to enter a product.
A product that received an award in a previous year’s event may be entered again.
Each participant will be responsible for all delivery costs, customs, duties, taxes and insurance. These must be paid by the participant before sending the entry samples, and the participant will be responsible for clearing and the associated costs at customs where applicable.
It is the participant’s responsibility to have insurance for samples, as they will be transported at the participant’s risk. Tank Town Promotions (Pty) Ltd will not be accountable in any way whatsoever for any loss or damage to the samples before, during, or after the event.
All samples are to be clearly labelled to identify the entries. This information includes the name of the manufacturer, the commercial name of the product, and the particular variant of the product if appropriate.
Because this is an international event, the basic guidelines for classes must be followed, but it is up to the entrant to choose a class that is appropriate relative to their own frame of reference. The judges reserve the right to move the product to a more appropriate class.
All entries must arrive, having maintained the cold chain as appropriate, from the producer to the delivery point, and must be in suitable and hygienic packaging.
The same product, even if under a different brand or name, may not be entered twice.
Any products left over after judging become the property of the event.
Only commercially operated importers, producers or distributors that abide by the food laws of the country of origin may enter.
Winners will be asked to supply the event organisers with high-resolution pack shots for use on its website, and in marketing materials. By entering this event, the participant grants The Aurora International Taste Challenge unlimited use of these images.
Be sure to securely wrap entries with bubble wrap or similar material to secure your entries against breakage. Please wrap your final package in a plastic bag and make it leakproof to prevent leakage and damage to other products. Label samples as fragile.
Specialised packaging material or any other packaging material will not be returned. Specialised packaging material can significantly preserve the final quality and viability of the sample being judged.
If styrofoam peanuts are used for packaging, please secure them in a container that will not cause leakage or spillage of the packaging materials.
International entries must take the necessary precautions to prevent breakage and hold-ups in customs, and are encouraged to use local agents to deliver samples.
If more than one box of samples is delivered, please mark the boxes as “Box 1 of 5”, “Box 2 of 5” etc.
After winners are announced, no additional samples are needed.
Leftover samples will become the property of the event.
The decision of the judges is final, and no feedback will be given.
We will not engage in correspondence involving products that did not win an award or did not do well enough.
Some of the judges may be producers or sponsors, but none of them will judge the category they entered a product.
Products that are not fit for human consumption (e.g. dog food, foul smelling food (unless it is characteristic of type e.g. certain cheeses or kimchi) etc.), or that are perceived to be such, will not be evaluated.
Discounts will be given to entries in the form of a reduced fee (the early bird fee), if entered by the cut-off date set for the particular year, the event it held.
The Aurora International Taste Challenge is not a trade show or public event. Only the organisers and judges are present.
There will be no prize-giving ceremony or trade / public tasting afterwards.
