The wines then went to the Mytton and Mermaid hotel at Atcham where they were to be judged by 5 eminent Masters of Wine, led by Patricia Stefanowitz M.W. The competition nearly had to be called off because of high river levels, but fortunately the Shrewsbury did not suffer as much as did South Yorkshire.
After 2 days of judging, the top wines emerged. These were re-tested in order to ascertain the award of cups. This turned out to be the year for the Cornish vineyard, Camel Valley, who won 2 Gold medals and whose wine-maker, Sam Lindo, won the Winemaker of the Year award. It was also notable for a success by the newest vineyard, Polgoon at Penzance, whose first ever wine, a Rose, won the Waitrose Cup for the best Rose in the competition.
| Full listing of the Cups and Medals |
Wines being sorted by organiser Ian Rowe
David Millington of Wroxeter supervises loading
The Mytton and Mermaid Hotel
The Severn in spate at Atcham bridge
Chief Judge Patricia Stafanowitz (rear, left) sets out policy before the tasting
Julian Brind MW, former chief MW for Waitrose
Julian Brind, Maggie McNie and David Wrigley tasting wines
UKVA General Secretary Sian Liwicki collating all the scores