International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) showcased its commitment to the local wine industry last week as the presenting partner of the 2019 ICC Sydney NSW Wine Awards.

Held on 18 October, the event was part of a partnership with the NSW Wine Association that will see the venue host the awards for three years.

ICC Sydney beverage operations and cellar manager William Wilson was one of the 16 expert judges who conducted a three-day blind tasting of nearly 900 wines, awarding 72 gold medals, with select labels now in the running for trophies at the award ceremony.

“NSW continues to go from strength to strength, with the awards further cementing the region’s position as a top contender within the national industry,” said Wilson.

“Working with the NSW Wine Association, we’ve been able to recognise some of the incredible labels produced in our home state, which can then be served to more than 1.4 million guests who pass through our doors annually.”

ICC Sydney CEO Geoff Donaghy said his team is proud to support the NSW Wine Awards to carry on its legacy of helping raise the profile of NSW producers on the national and global stage.

“From the very beginning, ICC Sydney has been focussed on supporting regional communities, and this is reflected in our wine collection, which features 92 per cent NSW-sourced labels,” he said.

“Our work with the NSW Wine Association is just another way we are strengthening our relationship with local producers, alongside building the presence of local winemakers and brands within our upcoming 2020 wine list.”