Entries for the 22nd Limestone Coast Wine Show have opened, with judging for the highly anticipated event will return to Terra Rossa territory at the Coonawarra Hall from October 16.
Previous LCWS panel chair Philip Rich is set to take over from Tasmanian winemaker Sam Connew as chief of judges for this year’s event.
Mr Rich brings more than 25 years of experience as a passionate retailer, educator, wine show judge and wine writer.
A former general manager of wine for popular Melbourne and Sydney restaurants Chin Chin and Kisumé, he now divides his time between looking after France Soir’s 6000-bottle cellar and wine list, conducting wine tours to Burgundy, consulting to wine importers and retailers, and contributing to the James Halliday Wine Companion.
“Philip has chaired a number of wine shows including the James Halliday Chardonnay Challenge and Yarra Valley Wine Show, Margaret River Wine Show, Mornington Peninsula Wine Show and The Australian Pinot Noir Challenge – he brings a wealth of experience to our wine show here in the Limestone Coast, and we’re thrilled that he’s taking the helm,” LCWS committee member Ulrich Grey-Smith said.
“Sweden-based international wine consultant Madeleine Stenwreth (pictured) is this year’s guest international judge.
“One of only two Masters of Wine in her country, Madeleine was named the 2022 ‘Swedish Wine Personality of the Year’ for being constantly at the forefront and generously sharing her knowledge and passion across the wine industry.
“Madeleine consults to high-profile wine producers globally, inspiring and challenging them on style and quality, creating blends with the aim of expressing identity and character with a sense of place.
“She also acts as an advisor and educator for export managers, sales and marketing teams, and is frequently invited to join winemakers in presenting their wines to the press, sommeliers, and trade internationally, where she contributes with an honest and objective opinion of the wines also within a global context.
“Madeleine has been a panel chair at the International Wine Challenge in London since 2013, and has also judged at prestigious wine competitions in Argentina, New Zealand, Portugal Challenge, Spain, Russia and Australia.
“Her experience is extensive, and her honest and objective feedback on our local wines will be invaluable.”
The show’s Trophy Presentation Dinner will be held on October 19 at Padthaway Estate, home of the multi-award winning Landaire and Eliza wines which won four trophies at the 2022 Limestone Coast Wine Show.
