Australian wines trounce the French

AUSTRALIAN winemakers trounced their French rivals as they emerged the big winners at one of the world’s biggest wine competitions, scooping up the most awards of any country.

Aussie wines took six international trophies out of 32 categories at the 10th annual Decanter World Wine Awards in London – while France won just three, half of its haul last year. It trailed Spain, South Africa and Chile, who each had four winners

The international winners beat out 14,362 wines from 61 regions to take the trophies across 32 categories.

Australia won in categories such as best Chardonnay, best Riesling and best red blend, all over €18.

Decanter World Wine Awards chairman Steven Spurrier said that the coveted “Oscar” of the wine world went to wines with distinction and character. “What we look for is intrinsic character. It has to say something. It has to speak of where it’s from and we don’t know where it's from but it has to speak to us."

Hungary also surprised the wine world by taking home a trophy for best Red Bordeaux varietal over €18 for the 2009 Sauska ‘Cuvee 5.’

Croatia won big by taking the title of best Sweet Wine for more than €18, while Canada’s Mission Hill Family Estate brand claimed the best Pinot Noir for under €18 with its 2010 Martin’s Lane in British Columbia.

The French winners were:
Sparkling wine over €18 - Charles Heidsieck Blanc des Millénaires 1995, champagne
White blend under €18 - Château Jolys 2012, Jurançon Sec
Rosé under €18 - Commanderie de Peyrassol 2012, Côtes De Provence

For all the winners, visit http://bit.ly/decanterawards2013