The wine café and provedore specialises in French and Italian cuisine and fine wine.

Owner Marlene Erard said a good friend they had known since the 1990s, and wife of one of the late judges of the award, Peter Watson, kept directing them to look at the awards on Facebook and eventually nominated the business.

“Life can lead you in circles and lead you back to key people,” Mrs Erard said of the nomination. 

Established in 2003, the Golden Plate Awards seek out the best hospitality venues around regional Victoria under the guidance of a group of high-profile judges.

The judging panel have until June 30 to judge the first round. 

After visiting and having a meal at nominated venues, they identify themselves as the judges and provide a full report of the experience. 

Mrs Erard said the couple purchased the 1911 cottage three-and-a-half years ago and started out as an accommodation facility. 

She said there were few eateries in Great Western at the time and they were cooking three-course meals for guests.

Since then they have strived to lift the integrity and food profile of the region, which Mrs Erard said had three of the “most amazing” wineries in the state. 

“We would be blown away if we won the award. It would be a big pat on the back for our hard work. We started in very humble beginnings and just followed our nose.” Mrs Erard said. 

“We want to build up (Great Western’s) identity. We want people to stay overnight.”

​The last Sunday of each month at the Steel Cutters Cottage has been dubbed Shiraz Sunday and includes live music and seasonal produce. 

Another monthly event, “Tastes Of...” Long Table Lunches includes a three- to five-course meal with matched wines.