Australian Winemaker named 2015 IWSC President
Hunter Valley winemaker, Neil McGuigan, becomes fourth Australian to be appointed President of the International Wine and Spirit Competition
The International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) widely acknowledged as one of the most prestigious and independent wine competitions in the world, has today named Neil McGuigan, Chief Winemaker for McGuigan Wines, as its 2015 President.
McGuigan, a third generation Hunter Valley winemaker, was announced President at the Competition’s Banquet & Awards night in London on Wednesday 12 November, marking the 46th year of the IWSC.
Prior to receiving the honour, Neil McGuigan was recognised by the IWSC on countless occasions for excellence in winemaking, including International Winemaker of the Year in 2009, 2011 and 2012 – becoming the first winery globally to be named ‘world’s best winemaker’ three times in the Competition’s history.
Commenting on the appointment, Neil McGuigan said: “It’s a great honour for the McGuigan brand, Australia and, of course, for me personally. In 2015, I will be an ambassador for wine globally, as well as for the IWSC – quite an honour for a guy from the Hunter Valley.
“On my travels around the globe, I will be encouraging more wine companies and countries generally to become involved in shows such as the IWSC, to ensure we are always raising the bar as an industry. The IWSC is about recognising quality, eliminating wine faults and embracing new wine styles - all the while celebrating excellence across the global industry. These are the principles of an organisation I am more than happy to represent out in the field.”
Landmark IWSC events and tastings – hosted by Neil McGuigan – are planned throughout 2015 taking place in London, Dusseldorf, Hong Kong and Vancouver.
IWSC General Manager, Ewan Lacey commented, “Neil McGuigan is very familiar with the IWSC and what we stand for. He started his winemaking career in 1979 at Wyndham Estate and has worked at a number of Australia's top wineries, including Briar Ridge and Rothbury Estate. His dedication to the industry is why he has been awarded the prestigious title of International Winemaker of the Year three times. I am delighted he has been named IWSC’s President for 2015”.