Humble $22 Aussie Shiraz wins title of best International Wine

A humble $22 Shiraz from Australia has taken out the massive title of the world’s champion wine.

A humble $22 Shiraz from Australia has taken out the massive title of the world’s champion wine.

Taylors Wines, based in South Australia, took out the International Champion 2022 award at the prestigious VINUS International Wine & Spirits Competition for their 2020 Shiraz.

The varietal features Clare Valley and Limestone Coast Fruit, smelling like dark plum and cherry fruits, combined with a slight chocolate and oak spice.

The Taylors Estate Shiraz 2020 is available from places such as Liquorland and BWS in Australia, retailing for just $22.

But it didn’t end there – the Clare Valley winery also took out another series of awards and special prizes at the competition.

Taylors Wine's 2020 Estate Shiraz won International Wine Champion. Picture: Supplied

A shot of Taylors Wines vineyard. Picture: Supplied/Dominic Loneragan.

It was crowned White Wine Champion for its St Andrews Chardonnay 2021 and Best Australian Wine for the Estate Shiraz 2020.

VINUS was founded in 2015 and is held annually in Argentina.

“It’s a special day at the winery when we receive news about an international trophy win, but to receive three major prizes – that’s something else,” Mitchell Taylor, Taylors Wines third-generation winemaker and managing director, said.

“We’re particularly excited that our Estate Shiraz – a wine we’ve produced since our very first vintage in the early 70s – was recognised as the wine of show against entrants from all over the world.

“We’re proud of our Estate Shiraz’s reputation as one of Australia’s top value-for-money wines. This award is a testament to our winemaking team and their ability to produce a wine that’s been loved worldwide for more than 50 years.”

The family – like many hospitality businesses – have faced continued challenges over the course of the last two years.

There is a decline in international exports of Aussie wines, particularly driven by ongoing trade tariffs imposed by China, as well as just the entirety of the pandemic and its impacts.

“It’s been a challenging few years, but the Australian wine industry is resilient. Despite the obstacles, there are some green shoots of optimism and excitement as we welcome more and more international travellers to our wine regions,” Mr Taylor said.

“Through awards like this, we’re able to promote the story of quality Australian wine to the world.”