Chalk Hill Wines’ 2022 Tempranillo Grenache has been named McLaren Vale’s Best Wine of Show for 2023, seeing Winemaker Renae Hirsch and Owner Tom Harvey crowned McLaren Vale Bushing Monarchs for a second time.

The trophies from the 2023 MGA Insurance McLaren Vale Wine Show, including Best Wine of Show and the prestigious ‘Bushing Monarch’ title, were awarded at the 50th Anniversary of the annual McLaren Vale Bushing Lunch today (Friday 27 October).

From over 700 entries, the 2022 Chalk Hill Wines Tempranillo Grenache was awarded the highest accolade by an impressive panel of judges, including Chair of Judges Andrew Thomas (Thomas Wines, Hunter Valley) International Judge Sean Ou (The Beverage Clique, Singapore), and panel chairs Rob Mack (Aphelion Wines, McLaren Vale), Ian McKenzie (Langhorne Creek) and Liz Silkman (First Creek Wines, Hunter Valley).

For Chair of Judges Andrew Thomas, the results of this year’s wine show clearly demonstrated the region's viticulturists and winemakers’ dedication to striving for excellence.

“As expected, red wines dominated the entries with the traditional regional varieties of Shiraz and Grenache certainly impressing the judges,” says Mr Thomas.

“However also on show was the continued regional momentum with the newer/emerging varieties and blends, and some absolutely compelling wines were found in these classes - particularly from the outstanding 2021 and 2022 vintages. The Big Easy Radio 2020 Malbec caught my eye as a brilliant example of a wine that can sometimes ‘fly under the radar’ of wine show judges”, he continued, highlighting the wine that was awarded the Chairperson’s Trophy.

Reflecting on the Best Wine of Show, Mr Thomas praised the skill and creativity of the McLaren Vale winemakers “mastering the art of varietal blending, as witnessed by the number of entries and the quality of the blend classes. The 2022 Chalk Hill Tempranillo Grenache ultimately rose to the top as a seamless example of vibrant fleshy fruit overlayed with a floral delicacy and poise. Its bright line of acidity and detailed tannin structure are the icing on the cake. A truly impressive wine.”

For McLaren Vale Grape Wine & Tourism Association CEO Erin Leggat the Best Wine of Show was a fantastic example of how the region's varietal and stylistic diversity continues to develop;

“The innovation and creativity of McLaren Vale’s winemakers and viticulturists is really pushing the boundaries of modern winemaking. Over our 100-year-old winemaking heritage, we have always been known for the premium quality of our wines, particularly our traditional varieties of Shiraz, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon. As our region’s reputation for new and emerging varieties continues to develop it is thrilling to see how winemakers are bringing together the traditional and the modern to create exciting new styles and premium wines to explore and enjoy.”

2023 Bushing Monarchs Chalk Hill Wines' Tom Harvey and Renee Hirsch. Photography credit – Ben MacMahon, MacMahon Images