Judging for the 2018 NSW Wine Awards begins at Eling Forest Winery

It’s the first time the event has been held in the Southern Highlands and is a testament to the steady success the region has experienced in the past two decades. 

Chief Judge Dave Brookes said it was also an opportunity for winemakers from other regions to get to know the area.

“I enjoy coming out to these regional areas and it’s great to get immersed in the region for a week. It’s a great opportunity for us to learn more about the wines being made down here in the Southern Highlands,” Mr Brookes said.

“A lot of us don’t get down here as much as we’d like to and it’s easy to get stuck in your own little cubicle and not learn much about the different regions around the state and across Australia,” he said.

It is a record year for the awards with close to 900 wines competing, including 22 from the Southern Highlands which will also compete in an additional regional judging program.

NSW Wine President Tom Ward said the judging process ahd been set up to be an enjoyable and accessible process for all involved.

“The one thing we’re is built around is moving away from the old way of doing things. There aren’t any white coats worn around here, we make sure all the stewards are involved, that it’s a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere,” Mr Ward said.

The first day kicked off with white wines, while day two and three will feature mostly reds. The largest class being judged is shiraz with 180 competing in that category. 

“Today we’ve kicked off with riesling, sparkling and sauvignon blanc. Tried to gently ease the judges into it. We’ve got a record number of wines competing this year and some of the classes are pretty big,” Mr Brookes said.

“The great thing about Australian wine is that there is such diversity because it’s such a big country. The regions all have their special features, it’s a diverse and rich tapestry. The Highlands are known for their pinots and chardonnays, but it’s a region with huge potential as well and I’m looking forward to discovering what else is out there.”