2020 Bushing King Announcement

McLaren Vale’s 2020 Best Wine of Show and prestigious ‘Bushing Monarch’ title was awarded today, Friday October 30 at a trophy presentation live streamed from Kay Brothers Winery to five satellite Bushing Lunch venues across the region.

Chalk Hill Wines, Tom Harvey and winemaker, Renae Hirsch were crowned the 2020 Bushing Monarchs for their 2019 Alpha Crucis Old Vine Grenache.

From more than 760 exhibits, the 2019 Alpha Crucis Grenache was the highest scoring wine of the 2020 McLaren Vale Wine Show as judged by an impressive panel of South Australian judges including Fiona Donald (Seppeltsfield Wines), Kate Laurie (Deviation Road),Tim Dolan (Peter Lehmann Wine) and local judging talent from across McLaren Vale.

Given the complications of COVID-19 and the changed events environment, McLaren Vale Grape Wine & Tourism Association could not host the traditional 600-person Bushing Luncheon and instead encouraged the region's renowned restaurants to host their own satellite lunches to live stream the trophy presentation.

2020 Chair of Judges, David LeMire MW highlighted the region's diverse winemaking talents in respecting traditional styles whilst challenging the status quo.

"The McLaren Vale Wine Show was a pleasure to judge. The region is strong on diverse styles and varieties, and few regions are as effective in both respecting traditional styles, and also adapting to new challenges and opportunities," said Mr LeMire.

"Shiraz and Cabernet were as strong as ever, the resurgence of Grenache continues, whites from Fiano and emerging red varieties are flourishing, and rosé is impressive. I think we all felt grateful that the show could go ahead, as it is a sign of normality and an opportunity to come together as a wine community. We had a terrific line up of judges, led by the Panel Chairs Fi Donald, Kate Laurie, and Tim Dolan."

McLaren Vale Grape Wine & Tourism Association General Manager, Jennifer Lynch is thrilled the Best Wine in Show celebrates the region's most notable variety.

"McLaren Vale Grenache has steadily gained a reputation for wines that are focused, fresh and respectful to site, it's exciting the 2020 Bushing title has been awarded to a variety synonymous with our region." said Ms Lynch.

"Congratulations to Chalk Hill Wines and winemaker Renee - after opening their new tasting room in early 2020 - this title is a thrilling way to cap off a huge year of exciting developments and success."

Full results here.

Photograph available here.

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