At the recent Adelaide Hills Wine Show luncheon, the focus was as much on the people behind the region’s renowned wines as the wines themselves.
The event, held on December 1, celebrated six individuals who have made significant contributions to the Adelaide Hills wine community.
Malou Helder of Simon Tolley Wines was awarded the Chanticleer Award for Best Cellar Door and Cellar Door Person. Praised by judges for her infectious passion and deep knowledge of the wines and their history, Helder exemplified outstanding customer service.
The Chanticleer Award, created by Stephen George in memory of his late wife Peta van Rood, aims to encourage and mentor new talent in cellar door staff.
Stephen George himself was honored with the Award of Recognition, sponsored by Negociants. The Wine Show Committee acknowledged George’s role as a mentor and inspiration to many Adelaide Hills winemakers. His influential work, particularly with Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir, has made a lasting impact on the region’s wine industry.
The event also highlighted educational advancement in the wine community. The Executive Committee awarded three scholarships for the Advanced Wine Assessment Course (AWAC) to Sarah Marrocco from Vinteloper, Dave Phillips from Cobbs Hill Estate, and Erinn Klein from Ngeringa.
These scholarships, supported by the Local Economic Recovery Fund administered by the State Government’s Department of Primary Industries, recognize the recipients’ active support for the local wine community and aim to enhance their sensory evaluation skills.
James Thorpe was the recipient of this year’s Grower Award, presented by the Grape & Environment Committee. This award acknowledges excellence in grape growing and a commitment to vineyard health and environmental sustainability.
Thorpe’s responsible management practices and honest business dealings have contributed positively to the reputation of the Adelaide Hills region.
These awards, overseen by various member-based committees of the Adelaide Hills Wine Region, reflect the community’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and the fostering of new talent.
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