Wine taster wins dux award

The Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI) has announced that Jessey McGowen, Winemaker at Pernod Ricard Winemakers, was the dux of the 57th Advanced Wine Assessment Course (AWAC). As dux, McGowen will be an associate judge at the 2023 Royal Adelaide Wine Show.

Following the dux announcement, McGowen said she participated in the AWAC to better understand her palate, upskill her ability to assess wine and expose herself to a range of wine styles in the process, which she was able to do with support and mentorship from the guest judges and AWRI staff.

The selection of the dux of each course is based on statistical scores, verbal skills and group interaction.

Mark Krstic, AWRI Managing Director, said, “The AWRI is delighted to continue its support for up-and-coming wine judges in partnership with the Royal Adelaide Wine Show. Jessey is a deserving dux recipient who will gain a great deal from this associate judging opportunity. During the AWAC she impressed the guest judges with her well-considered comments and approach to tasting.”

The AWAC, presented by the AWRI, puts participants through an intensive four-day program of wine sensory education and assessment. It aims to prepare potential new wine show judges and develop the sensory analysis capabilities and vocabulary of Australian wine professionals. The course is delivered by AWRI staff alongside leading wine show judges, journalists and winemakers.

Image caption: Jessey McGowen, Pernod Ricard Winemakers – dux of the 57th Advanced Wine Assessment Course.