Penny’s Hill 2023 Single Vineyard Grenache has taken top honours at the 2024 MGA Insurance Group McLaren Vale Wine Show, winning the coveted title of Best Wine of Show. This achievement crowns winemakers Alexia Roberts and Paul Carpenter as the 2024 McLaren Vale Bushing Monarchs, celebrated at the prestigious 51st McLaren Vale Bushing Lunch held on Friday 25 October.

As the newly crowned Bushing Monarchs, Alexia Roberts and Paul Carpenter join a prestigious lineage of McLaren Vale winemakers recognised for exceptional skill and dedication. Both well-respected figures in the winemaking community, they have built a reputation for their deep commitment to showcasing the unique qualities of the McLaren Vale terroir.

Roberts, who brings a wealth of knowledge and creative vision to her role, is celebrated not only for her technical prowess but also as a trailblazer for women in winemaking. Carpenter, known for his expertise and careful approach to vineyard selection, complements this vision, creating wines that are both innovative and expressive of the region’s character.

Reflecting on their achievement, Roberts has expressed her pride in the Grenache’s success and the region’s recognition: “To be named Bushing Monarchs is a tremendous honour, and it highlights our team’s dedication to crafting wines that capture McLaren Vale’s essence. This Grenache, in particular, has been a joy to create, balancing traditional methods with a modern touch to highlight the vibrant fruit and complexity unique to our vineyards.”

In a competition featuring 629 entries, Penny’s Hill 2023 Single Vineyard Grenache captured the attention of a distinguished judging panel, including Chair of Judges Andrew Thomas from Hunter Valley’s Thomas Wines, alongside International Judge Emma Jenkins MW from New Zealand, and esteemed panel chairs Pip Anderson (Tolpuddle, Tasmania), Toby Barlow (TWE, South Australia), and Steven Paul (Oakdene, Victoria).

Andrew Thomas commended the Grenache’s remarkable qualities, stating, “This wine stood out like a beacon within its class. Being chosen as Best Wine of the Show reflects meticulous winemaking and a pedigree vineyard site. It boasts vibrant red cherry notes, delicate florals, a hint of whole-bunch complexity, and a beautiful balance of sweet and savoury textures. With crunchy acidity and a chalky tannin structure, this is truly a benchmark Grenache.”

Thomas noted the impressive calibre of this year’s entries, underscoring the commitment of McLaren Vale’s viticulturists and winemakers to excellence across both red and white varieties.

“While red wines dominated, we’re seeing increased attention to whites, particularly Fiano, which has become a standout variety. Other whites, such as Chenin Blanc, Vermentino, and Grenache Gris, were beautifully crafted and reflect the evolving versatility of the region,” he added.

Erin Leggat, CEO of McLaren Vale Grape Wine & Tourism Association, has remarked on the diversity and creative momentum driving the region’s global reputation.

“McLaren Vale’s standing as a world leader in Grenache and innovative wine styles is undeniable, and this year’s Best Wine of Show is a brilliant example of the creativity, precision, and passion that defines our region,” she says. “Crafted by a standout female winemaker, this Grenache reflects not only the elegance and depth achievable here but also the innovation and mastery that continues to put McLaren Vale on the map.”

As they embark on their year-long reign as Bushing Monarchs, Roberts and Carpenter will serve as ambassadors of McLaren Vale, championing the region’s wines on both national and international stages. Their roles as Bushing Monarchs symbolise not only the skill in the bottle but also the passion and pioneering spirit that characterise McLaren Vale’s winemaking community.

For a full list of trophy winners and the complete results of the 2024 Wine Show, visit the official McLaren Vale Wine Show website.