At an awards ceremeny held on October 7th, the 2021 Golden Vines Diversity Scholarships were awarded to Angela Elizabeth Scott from the USA and Dr Erna Blancquaert from South Africa. Jancis Robinson MW, on behalf of the Judging Panel, commented: “The wine world is incredibly lucky to have Angela Scott. Ex human rights lawyer, ex Karen McNeil’s tasting co-ordinator, current Master of Wine student who sold her house to pay for the MW course. Highly literate. Where will she go next!” While Dr. Blancquaert said on her being awarded the scholarship “I am honoured and humbled. This Golden Vines Diversity Scholarship will enable me to expand my knowledge on the entire wine value chain, implement it in my teaching, and address global Vitiviniculture problems through my research,” explains Erna.
Adrian Bridge, CEO of Taylor’s Port, the sponsor of the scholarships commented: “Taylor’s Port is delighted to be involved with this initiative to foster diversity in the wine industry. We are excited to see two very worthy winners have been chosen by the Judges. As a company, we always worked closely with Gérard Basset and were involved in his first Hotel Du Vin in Winchester. Gérard was a great supporter of the wine industry and education, so it is an honour for us to be associated with his name and this very important award”.