By Amy Looker, editor National Liquor News
The people behind the Hunter Valley’s leading wineries frocked up last night for the annual Hunter Valley Legends and Wine Industry Awards.
Held at Wyndham Estate, the awards honour the achievements of those who have made major contributions and excelled within the Hunter Valley wine industry.
Winners were announced in six categories, including the naming of the newest member of the Hunter Valley ‘Living Legends’ group, which last night welcomed Kevin Sobels to its ranks.
Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association (HVWTA) vice president Mike De Iuliis said it was important for the region to celebrate its own successes and the excellence of the region’s winemakers, viticulturists and industry.
“Tonight’s awards recognise those who have been integral in building and maintaining the Hunter Valley’s standing as a world-class wine producing region, and at the same time celebrates our history,” said De Iuliis at last night’s presentation dinner.
“With Kevin Sobels being announced as the newly inducted Legend, there were also two winners who repeated their successes from recent years – Andrew ‘Thommo’ Thomas as Winemaker of the Year and Tulloch Wines taking out Cellar Door of the Year. Congratulations to all winners.”
The 2014 Award winners are:
2014 Hunter Valley Wine Industry Living Legend:
Kevin Sobels
2014 Winemaker of the Year:
Andrew Thomas, Thomas Wines
2014 Rising Star of the Year:
Belinda Stapleton, Spicers Vineyard Estate
2014 Viticulturist of the Year:
Louise Eather, Orlando Wyndham
2014 Cellar Door of the Year:
Tulloch Wines
2014 Hunter Valley Heritage Award:
Marthaville Homestead & 1973 Vintage Festival Poster