Mr. Riggs' winning MontepulcianoIn another success for Australia and for the first time in the competition's 33-year history, local producers, including Adelaide Hills’ Bird in Hand and Mr. Riggs, were awarded Gold medals for wines made from Montepulciano. In the past only Italian producers have won Gold with this varietal.
Popular Australian red varieties Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon received the strongest recognition with 51 Golds, while Riesling, Semillon and Chardonnay were among the 29 white wine winners.
Wolf Blass Wines received seven Gold medals while Penfolds and McGuigan Wines were each awarded five.
IWC is recognised as the most meticulously judged wine competition in the world. The challenge calls for wines to be blind tasted three times, with at least ten different judges taking part on each occasion.
Wine Australia Head of Market UK and Europe Laura Jewell MW said Australia’s success indicated the strong and ongoing potential for the category around the world.
"We are delighted that the outstanding quality of Australian wine has once again been recognised with significant accolades at the prestigious IWC," she said.
"The success of Australian wines at the IWC and other leading competitions reflects the high regard judges have for our wines internationally, and is a testament to the hard work and passion of our winemakers.
"It’s wonderful to celebrate the recognition of our alternative varieties, with the IWC awarding Australian wines made from a wide range of grape varieties and in a variety of styles."
IWC co-Chairman Charles Metcalfe praised Australia’s success across the broad spectrum of wine styles.
"Many producers have been really successful with several different grape varieties, and maintaining consistency across vintages; a phenomenal performance overall."
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