Australian Food Awards Producer Spotlight: Saucy Wench
17 Oct 2024 / Food
Pictured: Lisa from Saucy Wench
On Thursday, 3 October, Melbourne Royal proudly revealed the winners of the 2024 Australian Food Awards. The Awards saw top producers from across the country showcase their best products, with each entry blind tasted and judged on their own merits against a set of criteria by a panel of esteemed industry experts.
One of the standout winners was Saucy Wench, which took home Best Dressing. Melbourne Royal had the pleasure of speaking with Lisa, the founder of Saucy Wench, who shared the impact of this award on her small business, the importance of the Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards for artisanal producers, and her unforgettable experience at the 2024 Trophy Presentation.
Q&A: Lisa, Saucy Wench
What an absolute dream come true, I don't think it really hit me until I walked into that beautiful building! Thank you also for making it such a beautiful event!
What does winning the Best Vinegar or Dressing award mean for your business?
It means validation. As a small business, and also a business making very unapologetically authentic Asian sauces, we are always unsure how our products will be received by the Australian public. The Best in Class medal shows that our products have been tasted, and a panel of very knowledgeable people have said, "Wow! This is the Best Vinegar or Dressing in Australia!"
Why are the Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards are so important for the industry?
It is important because it encourages small, artisanal producers to continue being passionate about what we make. Too often, small producers get "business mentors" who can't see the benefits of making a beautifully made product, encouraging the producer to forego the things that make their product special. Receiving acknowledgement from organisations like Melbourne Royal reminds us that what we make, and the passion we pour into it, is just as important as making money.
What did you most enjoy at the 2024 Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards Trophy Presentation?
Oh my goodness, how can I answer this question? I loved being in the MasterChef kitchen, I loved tasting all the award winning products, I loved meeting all the other fantastic winners, I loved being Best Dressed to win Best Dressing - I LOVED IT ALL!
To view the full list of winners, head to melbourneroyal.com.au/food
Pictured: Saucy Wench award winning Garlic & Eschallot Vinaigrette