Record turnout at the 2022 Hunter Valley Legends & Wine Industry Awards
Now in its 15th year the Awards saw a record turnout of Hunter Valley wine and tourism businesses recognised for excellence, commitment and quality.
The inaugural 2022 Hunter Valley Tourism Operator of the Year was awarded to Beyond Ballooning, and the inaugural 2022 Hunter Valley Accommodation Operator of the Year to Spicers Guesthouse. De Iuliis Wines took out the title of Wine Selectors 2022 Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year.
Liz Silkman was named First Creek Winemaking Services 2022 Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year. Liz previously won the prestigious title in 2011 and 2016 and becomes the first Winemaker to win this award three times.
The title of 2022 Viticulturist of the Year was awarded to Jerome Scarborough of Scarborough Wine Co. with his sustainable vineyard practices and commitment to industry development praised by the judges.
Previously the Award for Excellence, this year’s Outstanding Contribution by an Individual was awarded to Christina Tulloch, CEO, Tulloch Wines. During her nine years as CEO of Tulloch Wines and two years as President of the Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association, Christina’s unwavering commitment to the Hunter Valley Wine Industry has been exemplary. Briar Ridge Vineyard winemaker, Alex Beckett, took out the title of Young Achiever of the Year. This award recognises an individual, less than 35 years of age, working in the Hunter Valley and their contribution to the development of a vibrant and professional wine and tourism industry.
Inducting this year’s 28th and 29th Living Legends, Master of Ceremonies and 2021 Living Legend Iain Riggs AM thanked Neil McGuigan, 2022 Hunter Valley Wine Industry Living Legend and Philip Hele OAM, 2022 Hunter Valley Tourism Industry Living Legend for their significant contributions over a combined 60 years plus.
After close to 50 years of active service to the industry, Brian McGuigan AM was announced as Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association Honorary Patron. Guests acknowledged and celebrated Brian’s incredibly valuable contribution and long-term dedication to the Association and wider industry.
