French wines on top at 2011 International Wine Challenge
A record 48 countries entered this year's International Wine Challenge (IWC) with French wines coming out on top.
English wines also performed well, scooping two gold medals as the results were revealed at the London International Wine Fair (LIWF) on Tuesday.
Denbies Wine Estate Chalk Ridge Rosé 2010 (£11.99 rrp) was the only still Rosé in the world to win a 2011 gold medal and Chapel Down was also awarded gold for its sparkling Rosé Vintage Reserve Brut NV (£24.99 rrp).
Overall, 450 grape varietals entered and 406 gold medals were awarded — a 19% increase on last year. A further 1,687 silver medals and 3,024 bronzes were given out with 3,655 wines officially commended.
France won the battle of the countries with 98 golds, Australia was second with 61 and Portugal won 42 gold medals.
"Now in its 28th year, the IWC's reputation means that an award-winning wine receives a tremendous boost and this year's competition sees an even wider variety of superb wines being entered, a 13% increase year on year," said Chris Ashton, Event Director of the IWC.
"Their international reputation and expertise together with the competition's unique format is a combination that guarantees each medal winner is truly deserving of their accolade."
The IWC's trophy winners, selected from the Gold medal-winning wines, will be announced in June.
