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Oz

by Chris Sherman (B-21) under Miscellaneous

Australians value wine prizes and awards very seriously.  So when Gourmet Traveller WINE, the country’s grand wine glossy named its 2009 Winemaker of the Year, I had to cheer.

This time it went to Andrew Wigan, a key player for 30 years at Peter Lehmann in the Barossa.  Wigan knows prizes from both sides.  He’s one of the most respected wine judges (yes, Aussies respect wine judges), and he’s also brought home the Jimmy Watson Trophy, the highest honor on occasion.

Best news:  his fine work in the vineyard and the cellar is affordable.  The 2006  Lehmann Shiraz is only $14.99 but was 54 on Spectator’s Top 100 for 2009:  “Ripe and round, this is generous with its smoky cherry and black currant flavors, persisting against mildly grippy tannins to create a long, layered finish. Best from 2010 through 2016. ” 91 points

Wigan follows in impressive footsteps. Last year’s winner was Louisa Rosa of yummy Yalumba, a treasury of Australia’s best traditions and innovations.

Btw, if you care about Australian wine (and food) or wine period, check out Gourmet Traveller WINE.  While it gives Australia and New Zealand the handsome coverage it deserves, it covers the world with true Australian character, adventurous, sophisticated and fresh enough to declare great wines ”ripper reds.”  Not shabby on the awards front either.  It won the golden ladle for World’s Best Drinks Magazine in the World Food Media Awards.

- Chris Sherman

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