There is relish, and then there are all other condiments. When added to a hamburger or hot dog, relish transforms them into a revelatory experience. But not all relishes are created equal. As relish connoisseurs, we know this well, and from March onward we have been searching for the 2011 Year-Endie Winner for Best Relish.

33 brands of relish from 5 countries and 2 continents, assessed for critical qualities like sweetness, freshness, consistency and the all-important “Wow Factor”. It wasn’t an easy call to make – there have been tremendous strides made in the field of home-pickled relish, and Vlasic had a great year. But in the end, it is the perennial favorite that takes the prize.

Congratulations to Heinz! Accepting the award is Jessica Jackson of Heinz North America.