JUDGING EXPERIENCE: Orange winemaker Phil Kerney has been selected as the Orange representative on the judging panel for this year’s Orange Wine Show early next month. Photo: JUDE KEOGH 0920winejudge1
THE only local judge on the panel for the 2012 Orange Wine Show, Phil Kerney of Ross Hill vineyard says the experience will help him to promote the quality of local wines.
Each year the wine show committee selects a local winemaker to work alongside visiting judges at the annual event.
Toni Paterson is chief judge this year, and will be assisted by Fran Austin from Delamere Vineyards and Andrew Koerner from Blue Pyrenees Estate.
Judging at this year’s show won’t be a first for Mr Kerney who has already had a taste of judging at other shows.
He says every time he puts a glass of wine to his mouth it is the integrity and the quality of the wine that is foremost in his mind.
He says he is encouraged by the quality of wine produced in this area.
“I think there are a lot more good wines being made in Orange than there were five years ago,” Mr Kerney said.
He is looking forward to the experience of working with Ms Paterson.
“I consider her to be an absolute master of wine,” he said.
“She has calibrated a world palate.
“The wonderful thing about her coming to Orange to judge is that as a wine writer she will communicate the message promoting the Orange region.”
The Orange Wine Show received a record number of entries this year, and will be held on October 3 and 4.
Following the judging, winemakers will be able to speak with the judges to get feedback about their wines.
Members of the public will have the opportunity to taste wines entered in this year’s show at the public tasting on Friday, October 19 at Orange Showground.
Orange Wine Week will run from October 19 to 28.
For details and bookings visit www.tasteorange.com.au.