Wine Australia starts hunt for "best and brightest" wine talent

Written by Claire Weekes

Thursday, 30 October 2008

Wine Australia has launched its search for candidates for its scholarship programme, which will offer 12 industry members the chance to go to Australia and participate in a series of educational workshops.

Applications are being sought for the "best and brightest" candidates from across the globe, from key members of the trade, press and educators.

The 12 finalists will attend an all expenses programme next June in the Barossa.

Details of the programme were first reported in Harpers in September.

"An enthusiasm and ability to generate positive awareness of Australia's fine wine is important", said Australia Wine & Brandy Corporation (Wine Australia) general manager of market development, Paul Henry.

Some of Australia's most discerning wine commentators and winemakers will present the course including Michael Hill Smith MW, Andrew Caillard MW and Dr Tony Jordan.

Guest tutors will include Max Allen, Tom Carson, James Halliday, Iain Riggs and Louisa Rose, who will discuss topics from the origin of classic expressions and international benchmarks through to new areas of winemaking interest that will undoubtedly define Australia's future fine wine landscape.

Michael Hill Smith, said: "This is an immersion course for the best and brightest international wine talent".

Candidates must have proven knowledge of international wine styles and be fluent in English