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Entries now open for the 2023 Limestone Coast Wine Show

Entries for the 22nd Limestone Coast Wine Show are now open. Judging for the highly anticipated event will return to Terra Rossa territory at the Coonawarra Hall from Monday, October 16, with previous LCWS panel chair Philip Rich (pictured below) set to take over from Tasmanian winemaker Sam Connew as chief of judges.

Philip brings more than 25 years of experience as a passionate retailer, educator, wine show judge and wine writer.

A former general manager of wine for popular Melbourne and Sydney restaurants Chin Chin and Kisumé, Philip now divides his time between looking after France Soir’s 6000-bottle cellar and wine list, conducting wine tours to Burgundy, consulting to wine importers and retailers, and contributing to the James Halliday Wine Companion.

“Philip has chaired a number of wine shows including the James Halliday Chardonnay Challenge and Yarra Valley Wine Show, Margaret River Wine Show, Mornington Peninsula Wine Show and The Australian Pinot Noir Challenge – he brings a wealth of experience to our wine show here in the Limestone Coast, and we’re thrilled that he’s taking the helm,” LCWS committee member Ulrich Grey-Smith said.

Sweden-based international wine consultant Madeleine Stenwreth (pictured right) is this year’s Guest International Judge. One of only two Masters of Wine in her country, Madeleine was named the 2022 ‘Swedish Wine Personality of the Year’ for being constantly at the forefront and generously sharing her knowledge and passion across the wine industry.

“Madeleine consults to highprofile wine producers globally, inspiring and challenging them on style and quality, creating blends with the aim of expressing identity and character with a sense of place,” Ulrich said.

“She also acts as an advisor and educator for export managers, sales and marketing teams, and is frequently invited to join winemakers in presenting their wines to the press, sommeliers, and trade internationally, where she contributes with an honest and objective opinion of the wines also within a global context.”

Madeleine has been a Panel Chair at the International Wine Challenge in London since 2013, and has also judged at prestigious wine competitions in Argentina, New Zealand, Portugal Challenge, Spain, Russia and Australia.

“Her experience is extensive, and her honest and objective feedback on our local wines will be invaluable,” Ulrich said.

The show’s Trophy Presentation Dinner will be held on Thursday, October 19, at Padthaway Estate, home of the multi-award-winning Landaire and Eliza wines which won four trophies at the 2022 Limestone Coast Wine Show.