Fed up with food and drink writing competitions where the winners seem to be chosen for political motives rather than the ability to perform on the page, one of our contributors is launching his own contest. Via the inaugural ‘Utter Gastronomy’, Douglas Blyde seeks to recognise genuine, engaging talent.

First prize: £100 and a magnum of boutique Prosecco; £50 to two runner-ups. Awarded over dinner at Douglas’s home, alongside chilled flutes from the Nino Franco range.

Funding by Dr. C.J. Luo, and wine-sponsorship by Nino Franco (Rustico Prosecco) are gratefully acknowledged.To enter, please craft a piece, from 450 to 1,450 words on why food, drink, or food and drink matters beyond satisfying hunger.

Deadline: 1st December 2013. Enter here.