Leading Australian wine producer Wyndham Estate has been awarded the prestigious Grand Vinitaly Award at the 2007 Vinitaly International Wine Competition - the first time ever a wine producer from the Southern Hemisphere has taken home the coveted international prize.

The Grand Vinitaly Award is assigned to the winery totaling the highest score for two wines taking medals in different groups. The Wyndham Estate BIN 555 Shiraz 2004 and the Wyndham Estate Show Reserve Cabernet Merlot 2001 both received Grand Gold Medals (the highest accolade) in their respective groups. Only 105 medals were awarded confirming the traditional selectivity of the event.

Pernod Ricard Pacific Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Laurent Lacassagne, said the trophy was due regard for one of the most iconic wine names in Australian history. "George Wyndham is widely recognised as the father of Australian Shiraz. The Wyndham Estate wines have always maintained a reputation for providing great quality and value. This is a tribute to all of our winemakers who have been dedicated to making top quality wines year after year," said Lacassagne. "This award will definitely encourage all wine lovers to re-visit the terrific wines of Wyndham Estate."

The judging involved 21 juries including leading oenologists and senior journalists from across the globe. Wyndham Estate now joins the Vinitaly Roll of Honour, which includes an impressive line up of previous winners such as Ernest & Julio Gallo from America, Segura Viudas di Torrelavit from Spain and four time winner Banfi di Montalcino from Italy. Wyndham Estate will now receive additional exposure during the 41st Vinitaly, touring throughout Russia, USA, Japan, China and India.

Italianalmanac