The 2021 ICC Sydney NSW Wine Awards trophy results were announced last year on Friday 10 December at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Sydney.

Of the 21 Trophies presented to recognise NSW’s best wines, seven came from Hunter Valley producers, including once again the ultimate trophy – the NSW Governor’s 2021 Best in Show – presented by the Governor of New South Wales, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC.

Silkman Wines were awarded this year’s top prize for their 2014 Reserve Semillon, awarded Best in Show, as well as Best Semillon and Best White in Show.

Described by Chair of Judges, Mr. Nick Spencer as “nothing short of extraordinary and a true marker of the Hunter region as one of the best in the world.”

The 2021 ICC Sydney NSW Wine Awards trophy winners from Hunter Valley producers:

• Australia Post Trophy for Best Riesling – Pepper Tree Wines 2021 Stone Mountain Riesling (Orange)
• NSW DPI Trophy for Best Semillon – Silkman Wines 2014 Reserve Semillon (Hunter Valley)
• Finlayson’s Trophy for Best Chardonnay – First Creek 2019 Winemakers Reserve Chardonnay (Hunter Valley)
• CCL Trophy for Best White Blend – Saddler’s Creek Wines 2021 Winemaker’s Craft Wild White (Hunter/Hilltops)
• Charles Stuart University Trophy for Best Red Blend – Margan 2019 White Label Saxonvale Shiraz Mourvèdre (Hunter)
• Orora Trophy for Best Dry White in Show – Silkman Wines 2014 Reserve Semillon (Hunter Valley)
• NSW Governor’s Trophy for Best in Show – Silkman Wines 2014 Reserve Semillon (Hunter Valley)

President of the Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association, Stuart Hordern said that it was exciting to see the region celebrated again for its produce – especially during the difficulties of COVID-19.

‘’As a region we were thrilled to have so many of our wines recognised as gold medal winners at this year’s NSW Wine Awards,” Stuart said.

“To go on and win a third of the trophies awarded, all from Hunter Valley producers, is an outstanding result and testament to the depth and quality of our wine producers. Special mention and congratulations to Silkman Wines for winning NSW Wine of The Year.”

In a first for the NSW Department of Primary Industries Graham Gregory Award, Liz Riley was the first female to be awarded the prestigious award which acknowledges an individual’s outstanding contribution to the NSW wine industry.

“I am so honoured to be the first female recipient of the NSW Department of Primary Industries Graham Gregory Award for services to the NSW wine industry,” Liz said.

“I am privileged to be able to support the industry through my work with Vitibit, my viticulture consultancy, as well as my work with national forums and committees who are committed to ensure the NSW wine industry continues to thrive.”

President of the NSW Wine Industry Association, Mark Bourne said Liz’ contributions are one of the many reasons why the industry can continue to reach such amazing levels of quality year after year.

“Liz Riley’s significant contribution to the NSW wine industry is without peer. Her advocacy for the NSW wine industry on research, development, extension and precision viticulture has been a major driver in keeping NSW grape growers and winemakers at the forefront of quality and sustainability,” Mark concluded.

IMAGE | Silkman Wines – winners of the Best in Show, Best Semillon and Best White in Show pictured at the ICC Sydney NSW Wine Awards.