If you make your own wine, it's always interesting to measure yourself against the competition, and one way to do that is to actually compete.

Here's a chance for those from the Black Hills (from Black Hills News):

1st ANNUAL BLACK HILLS GRAPE & BERRY GROWERS ASSOCIATION AMATEUR WINE COMPETITION

January 25, 2007

AMATEUR WINE COMPETITION RULES

ENTRY DEADLINE is Monday, January 22, 2007. Wines are to be delivered to: Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce, 415 5th Ave., Belle Fourche, South Dakota.

ENTRY FEE is $5.00 for each bottle of wine entered. Only ONE BOTTLE per entry is required.

Each winemaker is limited to THREE (3) ENTRIES, but not more than two (2) entries per class. However, each entry must be of different ingredients or vintages.

THREE PLACES in each class will be awarded certificates. Each place may have more than one certificate awarded if deemed worthy. When exhibits are not deemed worthy, the judges will not award certificates. The "BEST OF SHOW" will also be awarded a plaque.

ONLY HOMEMADE WINE MAY BE ENTERED (kit wine is acceptable) NOTE: Amateur wines shall not contain any commercial wine, flavored brandies, or liqueurs.

The person entering the wine must be the winemaker.
Amateur winemakers cannot use the facilities or products of a commercial winery or "brew-on-premises" during any stage of wine preparation and/or storage.

Selection of the appropriate class/category is the responsibility of the entrant.*

BOTTLE PREPARATION: Still wines must be in standard 750 ml Burgundy, Bordeaux or Rhine shaped wine bottles.
SCREW CAP BOTTLES are allowed if seal prevents spillage.

BOTTLES MUST BE FREE OF WINE LABELS, WAX, CAPSULES, ETC.

Cider and Mead may be submitted in 2 - 12 oz. beer bottles or 1 -22 oz. beer bottle.

SPARKLING WINES must be in champagne bottles with proper closure and wire.

Use ONE registration form for EACH bottle entered (form can be reproduced). Wines may be disqualified if registration form is incomplete or illegible.

ATTACH ONLY the official REGISTRATION LABEL to the bottle. Use 2 pieces of transparent tape, attaching only at the sides of the label.

10. We will handle the bottles with care but will not be responsible for any loss or damage. Entries will NOT be returned.

11. The winners will be announced at the Association Meeting on Thursday, January 25, 2007. Certificates and Score Sheets will be available after the Meeting.

12. Samples of the wine entered in the competition will be available to anyone 21 years of age or older attending the meeting, while supplies are available.

13. You need not be present at the Meeting to enter your wines into competition. However, we know you would enjoy and benefit by attending the Meeting on Thursday, January 25, 2007